A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of Mothers and Healthcare Professionals Caring for Preterm Babies in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The survival of preterm infants and the mental health of their mothers have attracted global health concerns. The present study explored the lived experiences, challenges, and coping strategies of mothers with preterm infants and those of healthcare professionals attending to the preterm infant-mother dyad in Abuja, Nigeria. Methods: A qualitative research design using an interpretative phenomenological approach with semistructured interviews was used. Purposively sampled participants (10 mothers, 5 pediatricians, and 5 nurses) were recruited from Limi Children’s Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria, until data saturation was reached. The data were audio recorded and transcribed using TurboScribe.aiâ software. Codes were manually generated, and themes were formed and analyzed using inductive content analysis. This study followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. Results: Overall, this was an emotionally and physically stressful experience for mothers of preterm infants and healthcare professionals caring for premature babies. Five major themes determining the lived experiences of participants emerged: 1) experience as a spectrum; 2) how we coped; 3) how we supported the mothers; 4) meaning drawn; and 5) suggestions for improvement. Conclusions: Mothers of preterm infants and attending healthcare professionals face diverse challenging lived experiences that are both physically and psychologically demanding. Apart from extended family and healthcare professionals’ support, religion was found to play a significant role in the coping strategies adopted by these mothers. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to the mental health of mothers of preterm infants and prioritize empathy with effective communication during care for the preterm infant–mother dyad.