City Research Online

Abstract

Objectives: this study aimed to explore, from a maternal perspective, the experiences of Brazilian women regarding prenatal care, childbirth, and immediate postpartum period, including the associated feelings and emotions.

Methods: a qualitative phenomenological study was conducted with six women, aged 18 years or older, who were in the third trimester of pregnancy during the first part of the study, regardless of parity, and who received care in both public and private healthcare institutions. Semi-structured online interviews were conducted during pregnancy and after birth (30-45 days). Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).

Results: the findings strongly indicate that perceptions and emotions regarding pregnancy and childbirth varied widely across participants. Common anticipatory feelings included fear, curiosity, and anxiety. Participants who reported negative maternity care experiences expressed feelings of apprehension and stress, whereas positive experiences fostered confidence and peace of mind regarding childbirth.

Conclusion: the findings highlight the diverse range of perceptions and emotions during pregnancy, childbirth and immediate postpartum among women in Brazil. The study also emphasized the importance of women’s expectations and the perception of control, and the critical role of a positive relationship with maternity care providers in achieving a satisfying childbirth experience.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Creative Common - by 4.0 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Publisher Keywords:	Pregnancy; Childbirth; Maternal mental health; Experience; Phenomenology
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences School of Health & Medical Sciences > Department of Nursing & Midwifery
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

Export

Downloads