Witzenberg Women’s experience of health care after a miscarriage: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Although some evidence is available from low- and middle-income countries, no South African data are available on how women experience healthcare during treatment for an incomplete miscarriage.

Aim: This study sets out to explore and describe the experiences of healthcare among women who suffered an incomplete spontaneous miscarriage in the Witzenberg subdistrict, a rural area in the Western Cape province of South Africa.

Setting: Witzenberg subdistrict, Western Cape province, South Africa.

Methods: This study used a descriptive exploratory qualitative study design. In-person interviews were held with women who experienced a miscarriage. Interviews followed a semi-structured format by a single interviewer to explore the various aspects involving experiences of healthcare.

Results: Eight interviews were conducted and analysed. The five themes that arose from transcribed data were: (1) a need for safety, (2) pain management, (3) moderating behaviours and attitudes, (4) disorienting healthcare systems and (5) abandonment. Several factors contributed to the loss of physical and emotional safety in the emergency centre environment. Timeous emotional and pharmacological pain management were found to be a gap while patients awaited care. Clear communication and staff attitude were found to be integral to the patient’s experience and could avoid the perception of abandonment.

Conclusion: There is a universal need for basic respectful, supportive and safe care in patients who attend an emergency centre for early pregnancy complications in rural South African. Specific focus should be given to clear communication and appropriate emotional support during and after the miscarriage.

Contribution: This study can be used as a guide to improve services by ensuring respectful, transparent, informed, and appropriate continuity of care.