Overcoming Shame to Vocalise During Childbirth: A Qualitative Interview Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore women's experiences of vocalisation during childbirth and the interplay with their feelings of shame.

Design

This interpretive, qualitative study is grounded in a social constructionist theory of gender, which provides a lens for examining the role of vocal toning in childbirth.

Methods

Between November 2023 and March 2024, 18 women in Germany were interviewed postpartum either at home or virtually. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Two themes were generated: ‘the shame of being heard’ and ‘the value of my voice’. The findings demonstrate challenges women faced when vocalising during childbirth due to feelings of shame. Overcoming social norms were key; previous experience with vocalisation was an advantage. Vocal expression was also facilitated by a safe, supportive birth environment.

Conclusion

Shame influences behaviour during childbirth. A key factor appears to be whether women feel safe and uninhibited in their vocal expression, which can be supported through empathic birth companions. Additionally, vocalising with others can contribute to normalising the experience and reducing feelings of shame.

Implications for the Profession Care

The findings suggest that healthcare professionals can help women overcome shame to use vocalisation as a tool to navigate the challenges of childbirth.

Reporting Method

Reporting adhered to the SRQR checklist.

Patient and Public Involvement

This study did not include client or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.

Changing behaviour in pregnant women: a scoping review

Improving health and wellbeing is a major goal in healthcare all over the world (WHO, 2015). Midwives and other healthcare professionals play a key role in educating women about healthy pregnancies (WHO, 2013a). During the course of pregnancy, women may experience a variety of psychological changes, including developing the motivation to change their lifestyle habits (Lindqvist et al., 2017). To support “behaviour change through a life-course approach” and to implement the WHO strategy for strengthening nursing and midwifery towards the achievement of the “Health 2020” goals (WHO, 2015, p.4), it is important for healthcare professionals to increase their knowledge of behaviour change programmes (BCPs) during pregnancy.