Living in a Constant State of Fear: Phenomenological Study on Experiences of Women with High-Risk Pregnancy Waiting for Childbirth in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Research and obstetric medicine often ignore the emotional aspect of high-risk pregnant women in clinical management and care. Even more so, research does not adequately address psychosocial well-being in high-risk pregnancies, particularly in low and middle-income countries, including South Africa. Thus, this study aimed to explore and describe the experiences and psychosocial support needs of women waiting for childbirth in high-risk pregnancies. We conducted a descriptive phenomenological inquiry in special clinics in two hospitals in the Nkangala District Municipality of Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. A purposive sampling strategy was used to select 15 women aged 22 to 43 years, and in-depth interviews were conducted. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used. The women experience high levels of negative emotions such as shock and disbelief, fear, pain and sorrow, lack of control and hopelessness, and anxiety following a diagnosis of high-risk pregnancy. Fear was the most expressed feeling by the women; their thoughts were dominated by fear, and they lived in constant fear throughout the pregnancy journey due to the unpredictable pregnancy outcomes and the potential risks in high-risk pregnancies. Overall, the negative emotions are interlinked and bonded in the experiences of women with high-risk pregnancies, are experienced throughout the journey of waiting for childbirth, and contribute to high levels of stress and anxiety. Further exploration is needed to identify effective ways to support these women.