A Qualitative Description of Pregnancy-Related Social Support Experiences of Low-Income Women with Low Birth Weight Infants in the Midwestern United States.

Abstract

Objective Low birth weight (LBW) is a significant health problem in the United States, and the incidence is higher in women with low socioeconomic status. Observational and epidemiological studies have revealed that social support reduces the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the current literature lacks research regarding the perceived social support of pregnant women in relation to birth weight from a qualitative perspective. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of social support during pregnancy among low-income women who had recently given birth to a LBW infant. Method A qualitative descriptive design was used to explore women's social support experiences during pregnancy. The sample comprised 15 women who had given birth to a LBW infant within the past 9months from the five urban and rural WIC clinics in the Midwest United States and a university hospital neonatal clinic. In-depth semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Results Three themes emerged: women's experience of pregnancy; challenges faced by women during pregnancy; and availability of essential supports for women during pregnancy. The father of the infant and female relatives were identified as major sources of support during pregnancy, and the women in the sample expressed a desire to obtain social support from family and friends. Conclusion for Practice Women from low socioeconomic backgrounds face various challenges that could adversely affect birth outcomes. Social support may minimize the impact of adverse life situations. Providing adequate social support requires addressing the multiple dimensions of social support and strengthening the existing support system.