Perceptions of Women with a History of Sexual Assault of Professional Practices that Promote their Psychological Well-Being During Childbirth: A Descriptive Qualitative Study
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Abstract
Introduction: Women who have experienced sexual assault (SA) are at increased risk of distress and trauma-related responses during childbirth. Certain perinatal care practices may contribute to these experiences.
Objective: To explore the perceptions of women who have experienced SA regarding professional practices that may contribute to their psychological well-being during childbirth.
Method: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with 11 participants who had experienced SA prior the childbirth and had given birth in Quebec (Canada). Participants were recruited online. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using the template analysis.
Results: Findings highlight 5 dimensions of professional practices that may contribute to participants’ psychological well-being: preparing for childbirth with the woman, supporting her sense of agency, establishing a trusting and safe relationship, adapting care to reduce the risk of trauma reactivation, and preserving meaningful relationships surrounding birth.
Discussion and Conclusion: The findings suggest that, for women who have experienced SA, psychological well-being during childbirth is influenced by the quality of the relationship with healthcare professionals, and by practices that promote consent, a sense of control, emotional safety, and recognition of their traumatic experience. They highlight the importance of person-centered and trauma-informed care, as well as the need to strengthen continuing education for perinatal healthcare professionals to foster safe care experiences and reduce the risk of trauma reactivation.
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