From surgery to motherhood : lived experiences of women after unplanned cesarian section
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Cesarean section (CS) surgeries are becoming increasingly common each year and with these surgeries comes a variety of challenges as the mother recovers from a major abdominal surgery while also caring for her newborn (Angolile et al., 2023). Currently in the U.S., there is an infant-centric approach, resulting in a lack of focus on the mothers' recovery process and a lack of education being given to new mothers following childbirth (Verbiest et al., 2018). The purpose of this study is to explore the essence of postpartum mothers' lived experiences following an unplanned CS delivery. Women experience a variety of challenges affecting their overall health and wellbeing during the perinatal and postpartum periods. Neglecting postpartum CS mothers' needs can increase risks and factors including pelvic floor dysfunctions, mental and physical health changes, and occupational disruptions (Burkhart et al., 2021; Horne et al., 2005). Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) have a unique role when working with this population addressing their needs holistically through interventions specific for the person, context, and task (Slootjes et al., 2015). A virtual or in person interview following a semi-structured interview guide was conducted with five participants to gain insight on their experiences following unplanned CS deliveries. Interview transcripts were analyzed and coded for pertinent themes through a thematic analysis approach and proper phenomenological research design methods (Braun & Clarke, 2006; Neubauer et al., 2019). Four themes were drawn from participant interviews to describe their experiences: Physical, Functional, and Lifestyle Challenges and three subthemes (PFD, Occupational Disruptions, and Impacts on QoL), Emotional and Psychological Challenges, Hospital, Community, and Family Support, and Lack of Acquired or Retained Education. Findings of the study suggest the increased need for awareness and education regarding CS surgery procedures and associated risks. Lack of awareness can affect the emotional and psychosocial aspects women experience following a CS delivery. Unplanned CS deliveries should automatically warrant a referral to skilled pelvic health therapy services to address the woman's physical and psychological symptoms thus improving their overall wellbeing and quality of life (QoL).
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