The perception of a selected group of midwives towards women experiencing labour pain

Abstract

This qualitative study was aimed at exploring midwives’ responses and attitudes towards women in labour, as well as their perception of the pain experienced during labour. A non-probability purposive sampling method was followed, and the data collection methods selected were in-depth individual interviews and focus-group interviews, with the aid of an interview guide for both methods, the researcher being the main data collecting instrument. More than one data collection method (triangulation) was used to ensure the trustworthiness of the study. Concerning the perception of midwives towards women experiencing labour pain, the study revealed that firstly, labour pain is unique to individual women, it is natural and bearable. Secondly, labour pain may be unbearable, and the women in labour need to be given medication for pain. Furthermore, certain behaviour was identified and viewed as unacceptable by participating midwives because it could put both the lives of the mother and the unborn baby at risk; these include: drinking herbal medicines during pregnancy and childbirth; extreme activities like jumping out of bed and rolling on the floor. These behaviours were sources of frustration to midwives.