Support needs of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are providing maternal health care services in Tshwane District

Abstract

Background: Midwives are expected to provide holistic care for pregnant women during antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care; however, who is caring for them psychologically when they experience loss of pregnancy? Midwives also need support during their loss as they go through pregnancy and maintain a relationship with the foetus. Providing maternal care to other pregnant women may remind them from time to time of their loss. Midwives who have experienced loss during pregnancy may need a companion on the journey to motherhood, a professional friend and an employer concerned about their wellbeing. Understanding their perspective may improve staff morale and increase their confidence in caring for pregnant women. Research question: What are the support needs of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are caring for other women during childbirth? Study aim and objective: This study aimed to explore the support needs of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are working in maternity units. Research designs and methods The study used a qualitative exploratory and descriptive design. The population were midwives who met the inclusion criteria. A non-probability sample method was used, focusing on purposive sampling. Detailed descriptions of the support needs of midwives were captured during in-depth interviews and recording of field notes where data was collected and analysed to ensure trustworthiness. Data was analysed through the coding process, where the data was organised into segments of text before bringing meaning to information. Data was labelled according to patterns identified and a theme was identified with categories and sub-categories. The research was conducted in the Tshwane district and ethical principles were kept. Main findings There is one theme identified and it entails the support of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are caring for a woman during childbirth. Sub-categories were outlined based on support versus lack of support from management, counsellor, EWP, colleagues, relation to sick leave including positive and negative support in ward allocation. Most participants verbalised they had support within the mentioned sub-categories of the organisation, while others also mentioned personal motivation. The study findings assisted in formulating recommendations that may facilitate effective support strategies for midwives. This study explored the support needs of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are providing maternal health care services in the Tshwane district. The recommendations entail counselling sessions conducted in the institution by the EWP for the midwives who have lost a pregnancy. Conclusion The study showed the support needs of midwives who experienced pregnancy loss and are working in maternity units. One theme was identified which explored the support needs of the midwives who have lost a pregnancy. Most participants shared the same views regarding the support received. Recommendations were made to try and make it easier for the midwives to cope with the loss.