# Women’s experiences of high-risk pregnancy care in resource constrained Cape Town communities

## TL;DR

This study explores how women in Cape Town experience high-risk pregnancies and interact with healthcare systems, highlighting emotional challenges and gaps in care.

## Contribution

The study provides new qualitative insights into the psychological impact of high-risk pregnancy labels and healthcare interactions in resource-constrained communities.

## Key findings

- Women felt fear and anxiety due to being labeled 'high-risk' by healthcare providers.
- The healthcare system often fails to address the psychological needs of high-risk pregnant women.
- Participants emphasized the importance of compassionate care and communication from healthcare professionals.

## Abstract

The ‘high-risk’ classification during pregnancy leads to constant monitoring and frequent interactions with healthcare professionals, making it crucial for healthcare providers to show compassion.

The study aimed to describe how women diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy experienced their pregnancies as well as their interactions with the government healthcare system in Cape Town.

The study was carried out using the Zoom digital platform and telephone. Participants lived in Cape Town neighbourhoods that are traditionally referred to as townships.

A qualitative exploratory research design was used in the study. Nine women over 18 years old, diagnosed as having had a high-risk pregnancy and had given birth within 2 years were purposively selected. Open-ended questions were utilised, and data were interpreted using a thematic analysis.

Four main themes with 10 sub-themes emerged. The main themes included: ‘Being labelled as high-risk’, ‘locus of control’, ‘fear’ and ‘hospitalisation’.

The study revealed that the psychological requirements of women diagnosed with high-risk pregnancy are not always met by the healthcare system. Fear experienced by women emerged from the high-risk label itself, and the amplification of the risk status by clinicians.

Through the lens of expectant mothers utilising government healthcare services in Cape Town, the study gives insight into pregnant women’s experiences. This insight provides opportunities for healthcare providers to re-consider and incorporate some interventions that could assist women.