Experiences of women regarding vaginal examination during labor: A qualitative study

Abstract

The authors’ aim in this study was to examine the experiences of women regarding vaginal examination (VE) performed during labor. This qualitative study is based on a hermeneutic–phenomenological approach. Fourteen women within the first 24 hours of the postpartum period following vaginal birth were enrolled in the study. We created six themes under the categories of “past experiences” and “future expectations”. It was revealed that women had many negative feelings during the VE such as pain, ache, embarrassment, and fear. We recommend that the health care providers should inform women about relaxation methods that will reduce pain and discomfort.

Acknowledgements

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. We thank all the women participated in this study and shared their feelings, opinions, and experiences.

Ethical Approval

Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Antalya Training and Research Hospital (approval number: 69/12, date of approval: 10/12/2015).