THE EXPERIENCE OF CHILDBIRTH FOR SURVIVORS OF INCEST

The purpose of this research was to discover what experiences, includi ng feelings, women who are survivors of incest have during childbirth. The recognition that the childbirth experience may trigger memories o f incest that will then alter the course of childbirth was the framewo rk for the study. This exploratory research was undertaken using a phe nomenological approach. The six participants were obtained through net working and issues surrounding confidentiality and consent were of a h igh priority. The data consists of transcripts of taped, one to two ho ur, in-depth interviews. During interviews each women recalled her exp eriences and feelings during and surrounding childbirth. Qualitative a nalysis was undertaken, the findings indicating that memories of previ ous abuse may be provoked by childbirth but that it is a very individu alised response. The effect of these memories on the childbirth experi ence is also variable but does occur. Privacy, control and touch are i mportant aspects of these women's childbirth experiences. The results and interpretation of findings presented in this report centre around the labour and delivery experiences of the women. The variety of women 's needs demonstrated in this project emphasise the importance of indi vidualised care by midwives and doctors involved in the care of childb earing women.