Abstract
This study explores the experiences of a group of midwives when caring for women who are having obstetric emergencies in labour. The study aimed to investigate the experiences of midwives to answer the research question ‘What is the lived experience of caring for women during obstetric emergencies in labour, as perceived through the experiences of midwives?’ The study utilised a descriptive phenomenological approach in which midwives were asked to recount their experiences during a non-directed interview. The data were analysed using a modified version of Colaizzi’s (1978) framework. The study was conducted in two maternity units within National Health Service Trusts in the East of England. The participants comprised a convenience sample of eleven midwives with between six months and twenty-five years experience, all of whom had given care during obstetric emergencies in labour - in either acute or midwifery led units, or in the community setting. Four theme categories and twelve associated theme clusters were identified. The four theme categories were: learning to care; involvement; coping; and valuing and respecting. The study suggests that caring in obstetric emergencies is a demanding and, at times, exhausting reciprocal partnership between the midwife and the woman. The midwife-mother relationship is characterised by varying degrees of involvement. Caring is initiated in response to actual or perceived needs or wants, and is communicated through physical presence and an intense emotional connection. The woman and her family are valued and respected, which facilitates the connection. The ability to care and to cope in these difficult clinical situations is influenced by a number of factors, including the level of perceived support from colleagues and events in the midwife’s’ personal life. Caring is enhanced by an extended experiential knowledge base and can be extended beyond personally determined boundaries if either of these two factors is enhanced. The study offers insight into a previously unexplored aspect of midwifery practice, and has ramifications for both undergraduate preparation of student midwives, and the support and continuing professional development of qualified staff.