Post-operative pain following caesarean section remains a significant concern in maternal care, often affecting recovery and maternal-infant bonding. The way midwives perceive, assess, and respond to this pain plays a critical role in ensuring effective pain management. This study explored the knowledge and attitudes of midwives towards the assessment and management of post-operative pain following caesarean section. A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was employed, using a semi-structured interview guide to gather in-depth insights from midwives. Sixteen midwives working in the Obstetrics & Gynaecology Department of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital were purposively selected. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and meanings related to midwives’ experiences with post-caesarean pain management. The study revealed that midwives’ knowledge and attitudes toward post-caesarean section pain were shaped by a combination of clinical observations, personal experiences, and contextual factors within the healthcare setting. Three main themes emerged: experiential and observational knowledge of post-operative pain, perceived skills in pain assessment and management, and attitudes influencing pain response. Participants demonstrated awareness of pain expressions through patient behaviors and, for some, firsthand experiences of caesarean section pain. Their understanding was further informed by clinical procedures such as the use of intrathecal morphine and patient activities like ambulation and wound dressing. Attitude towards pain management varied, with some midwives expressing empathy and a proactive approach, while others exhibited negative attitudes, including delayed responses to pain complaints, assumptions that patients were exaggerating, and the use of placebos. These attitudes were often influenced by workload pressures and expectations that women should tolerate a certain level of pain post-surgery. The study highlights that midwives’ approaches to post-caesarean pain are influenced by both clinical experience and personal attitudes, which can either enhance or hinder effective pain management. Addressing negative perceptions and reinforcing evidence-based pain practices are essential for improving maternal post-operative care.
Gyapong et al. (Wed,) studied this question.