# Socio-demographic factors, informal payments and satisfaction with childbirth in the Hungarian context

## TL;DR

This study explores how socio-demographic factors and informal payments affect childbirth satisfaction in Hungary, highlighting the importance of financial and competency aspects in care.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the role of informal payments and socio-demographic factors in shaping childbirth satisfaction in Hungary.

## Key findings

- Lower education levels are associated with the belief that informal payments and private doctors are essential for quality care.
- Emphasis on financial aspects correlates with dissatisfaction, while prioritizing competency is linked to higher satisfaction.
- 13.8% of women were dissatisfied with their childbirth experience, compared to 6.1% of men.

## Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impact of socio-demographic factors on childbirth satisfaction in Hungary, with a particular focus on the role of informal payments. While previous research has extensively examined maternal satisfaction, the specific influence of socio-demographic characteristics on childbirth experiences remains insufficiently explored, particularly in Hungary, where informal payments and a dual healthcare system coexist. By addressing this gap, the study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the factors that shape birth satisfaction.

This study examines satisfaction with childbirth using a representative sample of the Hungarian adult population surveyed between February and April 2024. Descriptive statistics (chi-square test) and factor analysis were applied to understand perceptions of quality obstetric care, including responses from childless women and men on general attitudes towards obstetric services (N = 1360). Logistic regression examined socio-demographic predictors of satisfaction with obstetric care among mothers and fathers who evaluated their partners’ experiences (N = 772).

Findings underscore the significance of financial factors in childbirth care. Individuals with lower education levels often consider informal payments and private doctors essential for quality care (χ² = 18.0, p < 0.05). Factor analysis revealed two key dimensions: financial and competency. Emphasis on financial aspects correlated with dissatisfaction (Financial components, Factor 1: OR = 0.74, 95%, p < 0.05) while prioritizing competency was linked to higher satisfaction (Competence, Factor 2: OR = 1.54, 95%, p < 0.01). The percentage of women dissatisfied with their childbirth experience was 13.8%, compared to 6.1% of men.

Efforts to reduce reliance on informal payments and enhance equitable access to high-quality obstetric care are critical for improving childbirth satisfaction in Hungary.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-025-07521-3.