학술논문

Exploring the lived experiences of women with multiple gestations in Iran: a phenomenological study
Document Type
Original Paper
Source
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 24(1)
Subject
Pregnancy
Multiple pregnancy
Women
Lived experiences
Phenomenological research
Qualitative research
Language
English
ISSN
1471-2393
Abstract
Background: Multiple gestations present numerous physical, psychological, social, and economic challenges for women. Understanding the problem-solving experiences of pregnant women carrying multiple can be invaluable. This study aimed to explore the experiences of Iranian women with multiple gestations.Methods: This descriptive phenomenological study utilized purposive sampling and continued until data saturation. Data collection involved in-depth semi-structured interviews, with analysis performed using Colaizzi’s 7-step method. MAXQDA software was employed for data management.Results: This study involved 12 women with multiple gestations. The average age of the participants was 33.76 ± 6.22 years, and 9 were pregnant with triplets. The data were categorized into four primary themes: the paradox of emotions, the pregnancy prison, immersion in fear, and the crystallization of maternal love, encompassing 17 sub-themes.Conclusion: Pregnant women with multiple gestations undergo various changes and experience conflicting emotions. Enhancing their ability to adapt to and accept numerous pregnancies can be achieved through supportive, personalized, and family-centered care, along with improvements and revisions in care policies for multiple gestations.