Women's views of high risk pregnancy under threat of preterm birth

To gain an understanding of the experiences of pregnant women at risk of having a preterm birth (PTB) who were attending a specialist preterm antenatal clinic and to elicit their views on treatment to prevent PTB.

A qualitative interpretive approach was adopted, utilizing focus groups and one-to-one interviews. The semi-structured interview schedule focused on two main areas; risk and treatment for preterm birth. Fourteen pregnant women were recruited from a preterm antenatal clinic at a major tertiary referral centre in the North West of England. All interviews were audio recorded, with consent, and transcribed verbatim before carrying out thematic analysis.

Analysis revealed 3 main themes. Women struggled with 'balancing the risks' associated with the threat of preterm birth, they developed 'personal coping strategies to survive the pregnancy' and they watched as the strain made their 'whole family crumble'.

Women's journey through pregnancy after a previous PTB experience is one of emotional and physical endurance. Women embrace the 'high risk' identity as it offers the opportunity for regular assessment and clinical reassurance. However, emotional and psychological needs must also be addressed to reduce stress and anxiety. By setting mutually agreed short term goals, significant milestones can be reached so that women feel they are successfully progressing through a high risk pregnancy through a series of 'baby steps'.