Journal
WOMEN AND BIRTH
Volume 35, Issue 3, Pages 280-288Publisher
ELSEVIER
DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2021.03.008
Keywords
COVID-19; Pregnancy; Birth; Australia; Perspectives; Experiences
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This qualitative research in Australia explored the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnant women, identifying major themes such as positive support experiences, changes in pregnancy preparedness, facing uncertainties, and maintaining resilience and optimism.
Background: The current COVID-19 pandemic has been shown to have profound effects on pregnant women globally, particularly, on their psycho-social wellbeing. Despite this, there has been limited qualitative inquiry into the experiences of pregnant women during the pandemic. Aim: This original research aimed to study the perspectives of pregnant women in Australia in relation to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their pregnancy experience. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design with semi-structured interviews was adopted. The study was performed in Melbourne, Australia. A total of fifteen interviews were conducted. Data was analysed thematically to develop major themes and subthemes. Results: A total of four major themes were developed: support fora positive experience, impact on preparedness in pregnancy and beyond, facing uncertainty of a pandemic, and retaining resilience and optimism. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the experience of pregnant women with potential to compromise their psycho-social wellbeing. The major themes identified in this study offer insight to organisations to develop woman-centred care during the pandemic and optimise the psycho-social wellbeing of pregnant women. (c) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian College of Midwives.
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