[Communication and satisfaction among primiparas in a public health service]

Abstract

Objective: To analyze first-time mothers communication with health professionals, and to explore satisfaction, needs and expectation towards healthcare services.

Method: Qualitative design using in-deep interviews and phenomenology was used. First-time mothers from Huercal-Overa (Almería) were intentionally selected in 2010 and were included in the study. A hermeneutic analysis was performed.

Results: Six meta-categories were obtained. Saturation of information was found with nine interviews. The meta-categories were the following: 1) Health professionals; 2) Pregnancy, partum and postpartum; 3) Communication; 4) Child nutrition; 5) Feelings; 6) Others. The mothers perceived as exciting this new experience and expressed feelings of fear, anguish and high sensitiveness. These feelings are increased by the information received from the family circle and the professionals which is referred low and contradictory. All professionals were positively considered, specially the midwife. The following negative experiences were identified: contractions, dilation and delivery. The end of the stay at the hospital was considered early and the time for consultation was short for the mothers. There is a demand about more information on breast feeding. Mothers wish health professionals to respect their decisions.

Conclusions: The study found some areas for improvement in the communication between firs-time mothers and health professionals which could be taken into account in satisfaction promotion plans in regards to healthcare services.