Rethinking Experiences of Birth in Our Operating Theatre (REBOOT): A Qualitative Study of Patient and Staff Experiences of Birth in the Operating Theatre

Abstract

Background: Birth in the operating theatre is increasing in prevalence and includes elective and emergency caesarean section and instrumental vaginal births. Birth in the operating theatre is a well-documented risk factor for negative subjective patient outcomes. Despite this, there has been little research into women's experiences of birth in theatre or staff perspectives on how they may create and contribute to a more positive theatre birth environment. Aim: To explore both the women and caregiver's experiences of birth in the operative theatre and to identify ways to deliver and optimise woman-centred care. Materials and Methods: This qualitative prospective study used experience based co–design principles and enrolled both women who gave birth in the operating theatre and staff who cared for them. All participants underwent semi-structured interviews to discuss their birth experiences. Thematic analysis was then undertaken to identify key themes from both the caregiver and patient perspective. Results: Key themes centered around communication and maintaining an empowering birth environment. Participants acknowledged the need for clear and respectful communication between women, their support person, and the multidisciplinary team, particularly within emergency situations. Supporting and maintaining an empowering birth environment was achieved through advocacy, autonomy, and inclusion of a support person at all stages of the theatre journey. Conclusions: Communication and an empowering birth environment significantly influenced the subjective experience of birth within the operating theatre. Results from this study may be used to identify system adaptations and improvements to support more positive birth experiences in the operating theatre.