Presenter Classification

Faculty

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Publication Date

4-24-2025

Start Date

24-4-2025 2:00 PM

End Date

24-4-2025 2:30 PM

Keywords

birth, birth experience, photo elicidation

Abstract Type

Research

Abstract

Purpose: Each year 3.5 to 4 million women give birth in the United States. Childbirth is a life-changing event that induces various emotions in women. Many women report having a negative experience due to short staffing, inadequate care, and a loss of autonomy. Aims: The aim of the study was to understand what factors contribute to a positive or negative birth experience.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using photo elicitation. Photos were collected from participants and included a description of how the photo represented the participant’s experience. Demographic data were collected through a survey. Participants were requested to submit up to five photos that represented how they felt during or immediately following giving birth. Content analysis was used to identify patterns and themes among the photos and descriptions. This project was approved by the IRB.

Results: Childbirth takes an emotional toll on mothers, but despite its challenges, it is a radiant and embodying experience that women go through. Data analysis is in progress.

Limitations: some women did not understand the type of photos to submit, so it may be that some of the instructions were not clear.

Conclusions: The findings from this study allow researchers to better understand the personal experiences and needs of women during childbirth, offering valuable insights for healthcare clinicians to be better equipped to provide improved patient care. This study has the potential to improve patient-centered care by promoting compassion and support during labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period.

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Apr 24th, 2:00 PM Apr 24th, 2:30 PM

Capturing Women's Birth Experiences through Photos

Purpose: Each year 3.5 to 4 million women give birth in the United States. Childbirth is a life-changing event that induces various emotions in women. Many women report having a negative experience due to short staffing, inadequate care, and a loss of autonomy. Aims: The aim of the study was to understand what factors contribute to a positive or negative birth experience.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using photo elicitation. Photos were collected from participants and included a description of how the photo represented the participant’s experience. Demographic data were collected through a survey. Participants were requested to submit up to five photos that represented how they felt during or immediately following giving birth. Content analysis was used to identify patterns and themes among the photos and descriptions. This project was approved by the IRB.

Results: Childbirth takes an emotional toll on mothers, but despite its challenges, it is a radiant and embodying experience that women go through. Data analysis is in progress.

Limitations: some women did not understand the type of photos to submit, so it may be that some of the instructions were not clear.

Conclusions: The findings from this study allow researchers to better understand the personal experiences and needs of women during childbirth, offering valuable insights for healthcare clinicians to be better equipped to provide improved patient care. This study has the potential to improve patient-centered care by promoting compassion and support during labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period.