The Silent Crisis of Cervical Insufficiency: A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study on Pregnant Women's Lived Experiences.

Abstract

Background: Cervical insufficiency treated with cerclage and/or pessary often requires hospitalisation and bed rest. This experience can be distressing and may lead to psychological trauma for pregnant women.

Aim: To explore the experiences of pregnant women living with cervical insufficiency and receiving treatment during pregnancy.

Methods: A hermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study was conducted by interviewing 14 pregnant women who were hospitalised for cervical insufficiency and treated with cerclage and/or pessary. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews, recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Van Manen's hermeneutic phenomenological method.

Results: Four main themes emerged: reaction to the diagnosis, effects of the condition and its treatment, challenges, and coping/support mechanisms. Women reported fear of fetal loss and uncertainty following diagnosis. Many sought information independently due to limited professional guidance. Bed rest, constipation, and hygiene difficulties were commonly reported. Emotional strain, disrupted routines, and strained partner relationships were also noted. Despite these difficulties, women developed coping strategies and found support from their families, healthcare providers, and personal faith.

Conclusion: Providing timely and clear information about the diagnosis and treatment may help reduce psychological distress in pregnant women. Midwives can play a vital role by offering continuous emotional and informational support throughout the process. Further studies are needed to explore such support in diverse cultural settings.