Psychological Experiences of Midwives Regarding Maternal Deaths at Two Selected Public Hospitals in Lesotho

Lethato Mohale; Isabel  Nyangu

doi:10.25159/2958-3918/15144

Authors

Lethato Mohale National University of Lesotho
Isabel Nyangu Edinburgh Napier University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2958-3918/15144

Keywords:

Psychological, Experiences, Midwives, Maternal death, Lesotho, public hospital

Abstract

Maternal deaths are a pervasive problem that frequently occurs in developing countries, driven by socio-economic issues, healthcare service-related issues, pre-existing health conditions, health professional-related issues, and socio-cultural issues.

This paper describes the psychological experiences of midwives regarding maternal deaths at two selected public hospitals in Lesotho. A qualitative, phenomenological inquiry was employed to collect data from a purposively selected sample of 10 midwives through face-to-face interviews. Audiotapes were used to record the interviews, and the data were transcribed verbatim. The qualitative content analysis method was used to analyse the data. Permission to conduct the study was sought and granted by the Ministry of Health Lesotho (ID58-2022). Participants’ identities were confidential, and they were allowed to withdraw from the study without any prejudice. Psychological experiences such as trauma, shock, fear, stress, depression, loss of trust, helplessness, bad dreams, and insomnia were reported by the midwives after the occurrence of maternal deaths. They resorted to individual coping strategies such as crying, alcohol and other substance-related use, and recreational activities. Unfortunately, these strategies were not guided, hence the need for trained healthcare professionals who will take care of midwives’ psychological and emotional problems emanating from maternal deaths.

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