Lived experience of spontaneous preterm birth following spontaneous preterm labor: the primary caregiver's perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

This study aimed to address an evidentiary gap by exploring caregivers' lived experiences of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) resulting from spontaneous preterm labor (sPTL) and characterize the most relevant health-related quality of life (HRQoL) impacts. Insights were used to develop a conceptual model.

Methods

Qualitative concept elicitation interviews were conducted with 24 primary caregivers in the United States, diagnosed with sPTB between 23 and 36 weeks' gestational age (GA) resulting from sPTL. Interview transcripts were thematically analyzed.

Results

During pregnancy, caregivers commonly reported physical and emotional changes, and limited awareness of sPTL. Many did not recognize their signs and symptoms of sPTL onset as indicative of labor, and des

SUBMITTER: Gargon E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12789106 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature