First-Time Mothers’ Experiences of a Planned Cesarean Birth

Abstract

Even though a cesarean birth is planned, women may experience physical and psychological difficulties. This qualitative study explored the overall experience of first-time mothers having a planned cesarean birth, which was any cesarean in which the decision was made prior to the onset of labor or labor induction. Eleven primipara postpartum mothers shared their stories. Data were analyzed using Riessman’s method of thematic narrative analysis. Seven overarching themes revealed a need to accept a cesarean birth and create realistic expectations. Education and support specific to planned cesarean births need to be provided to the woman and her support person both before and after the birth. Realistic expectations will improve the adaptation process.

Coping With the Unexpected in Childbirth: A Thematic Analysis

“…In a recent descriptive qualitative study, Baxter (2020) found that without appropriate support from staff, a woman's pain and any unexpected interventions in labor had a far greater negative emotional impact. Another recent qualitative study which described first time mother's experiences with cesarean surgery revealed similar feelings of fear related to the unknowns of the operating room, surgical procedures, and anesthesia (Puia, 2018) as were observed in this sample.…”

Determinants of caesarean section rates in private-not-for-profit healthcare facilities: St. Joseph’s Hospital_ Kitovu

“…One participant explained, "I wanted desperately to birth vaginally, but I opted for the planned caesarean, as in the end the risk to the baby was much less." These women were willing to forego their own desires for a vaginal birth in order to provide what they felt was the safer alternative for their baby (Puia, 2018).…”

Local awareness based midwifery care in basic level service in the digital era

“…Thus, regular delivery and cesarean section essentially have a psychological impact on a mother (Puia, 2018). Therefore it is necessary to carry out a model of midwifery care with village midwives and medical midwives.…”