Severe Perineal Tears during Childbirth: A Study of Ethnic Minority Women's lived Experiences and Healthcare Challenges

Abstract Background The increasing incidence of Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) has resulted in numerous reported cases of complications and risks among women, significantly impacting their quality of life. Qualitative studies focusing on lived experiences of women following OASI in the United Kingdom (UK) are scarce. Aim This study aims to explore the lived experiences of women with OASI from culturally diverse backgrounds in Leicester, UK. Methodology: A focus group discussions (FCDs) was held virtually with ten women from Leicester who had experienced third and fourth-degree tears in the last one to five years. Invitation to participate in the study were sent out by Leicester Mammas via email, attached with a flyer. The data was analysed using the five-step thematic analysis approach by Braun and Clarke. Results The study identified several key themes such as childbirth experiences, complications and reflection, societal influence and childbirth choices, cultural silence, stigmatization, and mental health issues. The women reported feeling uninformed and unprepared about possible complications and risks such as third and fourth-degree tears, resulting in traumatic birthing experiences, aggravated by inadequate healthcare communication and support from healthcare providers. Conclusion There is the need for future research to integrate physical, physiological and mental health support, as well as sustained follow-up into OASIS care bundle. This will essentially support women's health and well-being during the perinatal period.