QUALITATIVE STUDY EXPLORING PREGNANT WOMEN PERCEPTIONS REGARDING THEIR HUSBANDS AND IN-LAWS’ SUPPORT DURING PREGNANCY

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy is not a disease but a psychologically challenging period where a woman passes through several social, physical, and psychological challenges in life. This study is aimed at exploring pregnant women perceptions regarding their husbands and in-laws’ support during pregnancy. Material & Methods: A qualitative exploratory design was used. Ten pregnant women in third trimester of pregnancy and living in joint family system were recruited through purposive sampling technique in a village of district Nowshera. Permission was taken from concerned departments as well as from participants before data collection. Interview topic guide was used as tool. Face to face individual In-depth interviews were conducted, audio recorded, transcribed, and analysed through thematic analysis. Results: A total of 100 open codes were found out from the data. In the process of axial coding extra and unnecessary codes were omitted and then 11 categories were identified from open codes. The identified categories were kept under three major themes of lack of comprehensive support mechanism, physical and mental strain, barriers to antenatal services. Perceived support of husbands and in-laws and needs and barriers to maternal and child health were discussed by the participants. Conclusion: Findings suggested that family relationship quality might not be improved by taking interventions i.e. making policies, but the incorporation of health professionals’ support with family member’s behaviour can improve maternal health.

Keywords

• support
• husbands
• pregnancy
• pregnant women
• perceptions
• in-laws