Individuals' Experiences of Having an Unplanned Cesarean Birth: A Qualitative Analysis

Julia D. Ditosto, Karolina Leziak, Lynn M. Yee, Nevert Badreldin*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective  The experience of an unplanned cesarean birth may be a risk factor for mood disorders and other challenges in the postpartum period, yet qualitative data on the patient experience are limited. We sought to understand individuals' experiences of having an unplanned cesarean birth. Study Design  This was a secondary analysis of a prospective qualitative investigation among low-income postpartum individuals at a single-, tertiary-care center in which the primary aim was to evaluate patients' postpartum pain experience after a cesarean birth. Participants completed a 60-minute face-to-face interview on postpartum days 2 to 3. Only participants who labored prior to their cesarean birth were included in this analysis. Transcripts were analyzed by two separate authors using the constant comparative method. Themes are illustrated using direct quotes. Results  A total of 22 individuals were included in this analysis; the majority (n =16, 72.7%) experienced a primary cesarean birth. Over half (n =12, 54.5%) identified as Hispanic and one-third (n =7, 31.8%) identified as non-Hispanic Black race and ethnicity. Four themes regarding the experience of a cesarean birth after labor were identified, including feelings of anguish, belief that vaginal birth is normal, poor experiences with care teams, and feelings of self-efficacy. Subthemes were identified and outlined. Conclusion  In this cohort, individuals who experienced an unplanned cesarean birth after labor expressed feelings of self-blame, failure, and mistrust. Given the association of unplanned cesarean birth with mood disorders in the postpartum period, efforts to enhance communication and support may offer a means of improving individual experiences. Key Points In this cohort, many individuals expressed negative feelings after an unplanned cesarean birth. Conversely, positive themes related to feelings of self-efficacy were identified. Efforts to enhance communication and support after an unplanned cesarean birth are warranted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)106-109
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican journal of perinatology
Volume41
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 18 2022

Funding

Keywords

  • cesarean birth
  • qualitative analysis
  • unplanned cesarean birth

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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