Embarrassment and modesty feelings during pregnancy, childbirth and follow-up care: A qualitative approach

Objective: Pregnancy and childbirth require several medical examinations which can awaken feelings of modesty in women. Although little research has been done on this specific question, previous research indicates that feelings of modesty and embarrassment could surface during medical examinations, particularly those requiring patient nudity. The aim of the present study was to explore women’s feelings of modesty and embarrassment during medical examinations during pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal care. Method: Qualitative with phenomenological approach. Data were collected by tape-recorded open-ended interviews during the early postnatal period at Paule de Viguier Hospital Maternity Unit, Toulouse (southern France). Twenty women were interviewed during their maternity stay. The interviews explored feelings of modesty during prenatal medical care, childbirth and postnatal care. Results: Results show that feelings of modesty and embarrassment are involved in women’s experience of medical care during pregnancy and childbirth. Nevertheless, all of these women accepted the necessity of medical examinations, citing that their and their baby’s health were more important than personal comfort. Conclusion: Some factors such as ensuring a professional and respectful attitude from the medical staff as well as having procedures explained could reduce feelings of modesty. This study offers an insight of an area that has, as yet, been little explored.