The experiences of women who undergo an emergency cesarean section: a phenomenological study.

Abstract

In this phenomenological study, the lived experiences of women who gave birth via an emergency cesarean section (EmCS) were explored. Ten women from the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, who experienced an EmCS, were interviewed and their narrative accounts were analyzed using van Manen’s hermeneutic phenomenological approach. Analysis of the interview transcriptions revealed six themes: (a) disruption of a “normal” birth; (b) losing control: “given to the healthcare system”; (c) pervasive sense of fear and urgency; (d) being alone without needed support; (e) missing pieces: losing touch with reality; and (f) missing out on feeling like a new mother. The findings of this study will potentially enhance awareness and understanding of the experience of an EmCS and could be used to improve the care of women who undergo an EmCS. The findings could also be used to direct future research regarding this type of birth experience.