Lived experiences of pregnant and new mothers during COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative analysis of YouTube birth stories.

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on unprecedented changes, not only to our daily lives but also to our healthcare system The pandemic has particularly impacted pregnant women that must give birth with tight restrictions and significant uncertainties. Birth stories have frequently been used as a way for women to describe their experiences with the birthing process. In this uncertain time, birth stories can provide valuable insight into how pregnancy and birth stressors during a pandemic can impact the patient9s overall experience. This study sought to describe and understand pregnant and new mothers9 lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Researchers extracted relevant YouTube birth stories using predetermined search terms and inclusion criteria. The mothers9 birth stories were narrated in their second or third trimester or those who had recently given birth during the study period. Birth stories were analyzed using an inductive and deductive approach to capture different aspects of the birthing experience. Results Overall, eighty-three birth stories were analyzed. Within these birth stories, four broad themes and twelve subthemes emerged. Key themes included a sense of loss, hospital experiences, experiences with healthcare providers, and unique experiences during birth and postpartum. The birth stories revealed negative and positive birth experiences. Particularly, mothers were frustrated with constantly changing policies within the healthcare setting that negatively affected their birthing experience. On the other hand, support from healthcare professionals, having their partners in the delivery room, and having a positive mindset was instrumental in having a positive birth experience. Conclusion Results from this study provided a detailed description of women9s lived experience with giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare providers need to provide clear communication and compassionate patient-centered care to relieve women9s anxiety about uncertain and unpredictable policy as the pandemic continues to evolve.