Reproductive health challenges during a flood: A qualitative study

Abstract

Abstract Aim The study aimed to investigate women's reproductive health challenges during floods. Design This study is qualitative, specifically employing content analysis with an inductive approach. Methods Data were collected through in‐depth, semi‐structured individual interviews between July and December 2021. The study involved 13 women affected by floods in Golestan province, Aq Qala Township, and also included seven healthcare providers and officials. Before the interviews, informed and written consent was obtained from all participants. The sampling process continued until data saturation was achieved. Results The analysis of the participants' experiences in this study revealed four main categories of requirements, which were as follows: Maternal and Child Health with four subcategories, Essentials of Women's Health Care with two subcategories, Problems of Relationships with two subcategories, and Aggression and Physical Violence with two subcategories. In conclusion, during floods, women encounter numerous challenges in preserving their reproductive health. Recognizing and understanding these challenges can be instrumental in effectively planning measures to prevent or address them during disasters like floods. Implications for the profession and/or patient care impact Every disaster has unique conditions and challenges. The health requirements of individuals impacted by floods differ from those affected by other natural disasters. By identifying the specific reproductive health needs of women affected by floods, midwives and other healthcare providers can enhance their planning efforts, enabling them to better address and fulfil these needs during such critical situations. Patient or public contribution Thirteen women were affected by floods, and seven healthcare providers and officials were interviewed.

Keywords

• floods
• Iran
• natural disaster
• qualitative research
• reproductive health