Miscommunication influences how women act when fetal movements decrease an interview study with Swedish Somali migrant women

Abstract

Objective: To explore how Swedish Somali migrant women perceive fetal movements, process information about fetal movements, and take actions if decreased fetal activity occurs. Design: A qualitative study based on individual semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analysed using content analysis. Setting: The study was conducted in Sweden. Participants: Swedish Somali migrant women (n=15) pregnant in their third trimester or recently given birth. Findings: The analysis led to the main category: tailored information about fetal movements enhances the possibility to seek care if the movements decrease. The results are described in the generic categories: explanatory models determine action; and understand and interpret information. Key conclusions: Miscommunication on fetal movements can be a hurdle for Swedish Somali migrant women that may have impact on stillbirth prevention and the quality of care. Improved communication and information tailored to individual needs is essential to achieve equality for women and their newborns. Implications for practice: The midwife can be used as a hub for reassuring that adequate information about fetal movements reaches each individual woman in antenatal care. Individualised information on fetal movements based on the women’s own understanding is suggested to increase the possibility that the pregnant woman will seek care if the movements decrease. Somali women’s verbal communication can be used to spread accurate information in the Somali community on the importance of seeking care if fetal movements decrease.