Perceptions and experiences of pregnant Chinese women in Hong Kong on prenatal meditation: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Quantitative research has evidences that prenatal meditation has positive effects on maternal health but lack of qualitative data in this area. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of pregnant Chinese women in Hong Kong on prenatal meditation.

Methods: A qualitative study. Data were collected using digitally recorded, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Setting: Prenatal meditation program (Eastern Based Meditative Intervention, EBMI) for pregnant Chinese women in Hong Kong who were attending the hospital clinic for routine perinatal care. Participants: 43 participants were chosen from groups of pregnant Chinese women who attended the prenatal meditation program.

Results: Six themes were developed during 1st interview when the participants first attended the course, including self-introduction, changes during pregnancy and how to solve problems, self-reported difference in mental and social condition before and after pregnancy, acceptance of complications arise during pregnancy, beliefs about bio-psycho-socio-spiritual interaction in relation to pregnancy health and child health and reasons why they participate in the intervention. Three themes emerged from the data collected during 2nd interview at 36 weeks, including participants’ opinion in practicing EBMI, effects of EBMI on bio-psycho-socio-spiritual aspects and suggestions on improvement of EBMI.

Conclusions: This research adds to the overall body of knowledge that prenatal meditation is important to facilitate pregnant women in coping with physical distress, better equipped in crisis management, strengthen social relationship and result in spiritual empowerment. Incorporation of meditation in prenatal care will be a necessity in future.