PREGNANCY, BİRTH AND POSTPARTUM CARE EXPERİENCES AND THOUGHTS OF WOMEN DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A QUALİTATİVE STUDY

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the experiences and thoughts of pregnant women during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period in the COVID-19 pandemic. The research was qualitative and conducted with 10 pregnant women, and a descriptive phenomenological method was used. The "Descriptive Information Form" and the "Semi-Structured Interview Form" were used as data collection tools. The data was analyzed using a thematic analysis technique. At the end of the interview, a total of 13 main themes and sub-themes for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum were obtained. During pregnancy, five main themes were identified under the headings of fear, restlessness and stress, anxiety, difficulty in follow-up, and precaution. For the birth, five main themes were determined under the headings of anxiety, loneliness, hope, precaution, and fear. For the postpartum period, 3 main themes emerged under the headings of anxiety, giving up on dreams, and precaution. The results of the study will be beneficial in terms of raising awareness of health professionals who care for pregnant women not only about the physical health of pregnant women but also about mental health. Holistic care should be planned and alternative care methods should be offered by considering the experiences, thoughts, and individual concerns of pregnant women. Women should be informed, guided and have access to services whenever they need them.