Whānau (immediate and extended family) lived experiences of whakawhānau (birthing process) during COVID-19 in Aotearoa (New Zealand): an exploratory analysis

This study aims to explore the impacts of COVID-19 on birthing for wāhine (women) and whānau (immediate and extended family) in Aotearoa (New Zealand) during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. This rangahau (research) provided whānau with an opportunity to share their whakawhānau (birthing process) experiences via interviews. The data were analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis. Themes identified in the results included the importance of whānau tautoko (family support), the experiences of isolation and trauma, and the effect of birthing under COVID-19 restrictions. Indigeneity was a core identity that was crucial to maintain, during these sacred times. Whakawhānau is a pivotal transition with the potential to engage with medical services. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge of whānau Māori (Māori [Indigenous peoples of New Zealand] families) experiences to enhance service provision.