Mother's lived experiences of preterm birth and neonatal care in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A qualitative study

Background: Preterm birth, which is a birth occurring before thirty-seven weeks of gestation, is a global health concern with medical, psychological, and social challenges. It often requires neonatal intensive care (NICU), impacting maternal well-being and healthcare systems. Objectives: This study explored the experiences of mothers who have had premature births. More specifically, the study investigated the perceptions of mothers regarding Healthcare services, emotional experiences, and coping mechanisms. Methods: This study utilized a qualitative hybrid thematic analysis approach. The sample included five mothers in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia who had premature infants who were under one year old at the time of data collection. Results: Mothers often experience stress, fear, shock, and guilt. They struggled the most with denial and difficulty accepting premature delivery. Surprisingly, some mothers suffered from a lack of knowledge regarding their situation. High-quality healthcare, careful monitoring, peer and social support, and empathetic healthcare providers were identified as factors that improved the experience. Conclusion: This study examines the challenges encountered by mothers delivering premature babies, emphasizing healthcare needs, mental well-being, and coping strategies. We suggest involving midwives in prenatal care and incorporating mental health services into postnatal care. Additionally, cultural competency training should be a requirement for nurses to ensure they understand the diverse needs of families during this critical period.