Women's experiences of unexpected situations during childbirth: A qualitative study

An unexpected situation during childbirth is a significant risk for a negative or traumatic birth experience. Existing knowledge of such situations is fragmented, and research has tended to focus on medical problems, interventions, or women's expectations rather than on their overall experience.

To describe women's experiences of unexpected situations during childbirth.

This qualitative descriptive study used purposive sampling to recruit participants by posting an invitation on two social media sites popular among mothers of newborns. Eighteen women who had given birth 2 to 12 months prior were interviewed remotely in their homes during the years 2023-24, focusing on their childbirth experiences. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using inductive content analysis.

The data consisted of 50 subcategories, organised into 12 upper categories and four main categories. During childbirth, women encounter unexpected situations related to a changing course of childbirth, unforeseen physical experiences, changes in mental state, or surprises in the woman-childbirth professional relationships.

In unexpected situations, a woman evaluates her experience through her mind and body in various ways. A positive childbirth experience is possible despite unexpected events. Women expect a continuous, supportive relationship with professionals throughout their childbirth experience.

The study provides new insights into identifying the characteristics of unexpected situations during childbirth. This woman-centred knowledge enables healthcare professionals to recognise these situations and to provide timely support that enhances the childbirth experience.