Publication:

Cultural beliefs and partner support on postpartum bilateral tubal ligation decision-making

Background Postpartum bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) is a permanent family planning method that requires informed and autonomous decision-making. Cultural beliefs and partner support are recognized as influential factors in reproductive health choices, yet their combined influence among multiparous mothers in local government hospital settings remains underexplored. This study examined the relationship between cultural beliefs, partner support, and decision-making regarding postpartum BTL among multiparous mothers in selected government hospitals in a province in southern Philippines.

Methods A descriptive–correlational research design was employed involving 110 purposively selected multiparous mothers with at least three live births. Data were collected in Obstetrics and Gynecology wards using validated researcher-developed questionnaires measuring cultural beliefs, partner support, and decision-making. Instruments underwent pilot testing, expert validation, and reliability testing (Cronbach’s α≥0.70). Descriptive statistics summarized variable levels, while Pearson’s r and multiple regression analyses determined relationships and predictive influences, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results Findings revealed high levels of cultural influence and partner support, alongside generally good decision-making. Religious and spiritual beliefs emerged as the most dominant cultural factors and were strongly associated with all decision-making dimensions. Partner support significantly correlated with knowledge, autonomy, and service access. Regression analysis identified family expectations and practical support as significant predictors, explaining 13.83% of the variance.

Conclusions Culturally sensitive and couple-centered counseling is essential to enhance informed postpartum family planning decisions.