Pregnant women's experiences of and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination: A qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

Introduction

This study aimed to understand the experiences of and attitudes toward pregnant women regarding COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy.

Material and methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted between April and June 2022 with 25 pregnant women in South Korea through seven focus group interviews via Zoom™. Data were analyzed using a content analysis approach.

Results

Participants ranged in age from 27 to 41 years, with an average of 33.40 (±3.84) years. Gestational ages ranging from 15 to 35 weeks, with 13 women (52.0 %) in their second trimester, and 12 women (48.0 %) in their third trimester. All participants were college graduates. Forty percent completed three doses, while 40 % received two, 12 % one, and 8 % none. Three key themes emerged: (a) COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, (b) COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, and (c) needs for quality maternal care. Participants who accepted vaccination trusted the vaccines and viewed healthcare providers' recommendations and government policies, such as the “vaccine pass,” positively. Hesitant participants cited safety concerns, past medical history, and incomplete vaccination as reasons for reluctance. Additionally, there was a need for enhanced information on the vaccine and supportive, individualized maternal care.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the importance of tailored educational interventions and supportive care that leverages trust in healthcare providers to promote COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant women. There is a need to address information gaps and hesitancy among pregnant women related to their concerns regarding safety or past medical history. Future research should focus on strategies to ensure comprehensive care and information dissemination in this population in order to increase vaccination rates during pandemics.