Abstract

Maternal morbidity refers to pregnancy-related complications, which can vary in how serious or severe they are. We interviewed 14 women with a maternal morbidity before, during or after birth to find out more about their experiences. Nine women were diagnosed with one morbidity including hypertensive disorders, haemorrhage, placenta praevia and gestational diabetes. Five women were diagnosed with two or more morbidities. Women were accepting of the uncontrollable nature of the adverse outcome experienced. While being treated for trauma, women were satisfied to relinquish their independence to ensure the safety of themselves and their babies. However, these events were difficult for women. Women’s inability to control their own bodies, as a result of the morbidity, added to high levels of frustration and anxiety. Morbidities impacted greatly on women’s quality of life and sometimes these effects lasted for a long time after delivery. Women felt that they were given very little information on the practicalities of living with their condition; many were uncertain how to manage their morbidities in the home setting. Healthcare providers should ensure that women who experience a maternal morbidity are fully debriefed and have sufficient information on the morbidity, including ongoing care and expectations, prior to discharge.