Pregnancy perception of physically disabled women without pregnancy experience: A qualitative study

Pregnancy is a natural phase for all women. However, the reproductive health needs of women with physical disabilities are often overlooked. Understanding their preconception expectations and daily challenges is vital to provide effective counseling. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore perceptions of pregnancy among women with physical disabilities who had not previously experienced pregnancy, to investigate their preconceptions, expectations, and information needs regarding pregnancy, and to examine the impact of physical disability on their daily lives. This qualitative study was conducted from October 1, 2022, to October 1, 2023, among 15 women with physical disabilities who had never experienced pregnancy. The initial participants were selected from among the members of the Denizli Branch of the Turkish Union of People with Disabilities. Subsequent women were recruited using the snowball technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using an introductory information form and a structured interview form. Content analysis was used in the analysis of data. Three of the participants were married, and their average age was 35.73 ± 11.66. Three main themes and eight subthemes were identified. The first main theme was "challenges caused by disability" the second was "women's thoughts about pregnancy," and the third was "expectations of support when pregnancy is planned." While the women had positive views about pregnancy, they also had expectations from their families, their communities, and healthcare professionals due to the challenges they experienced. It is recommended that the special needs of women with disabilities be identified, midwives be trained on this issue, and necessary plans be made for individual counseling.