Pregnancy, Motherhood and Partner Support in Visually Impaired Women: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of women with vision impairments regarding the meaning of motherhood and their mothering-related issues and priorities. Methods: In-depth individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted between July and December 2020 with a group of visually impaired mothers residing in Italy. The interviews explored experiences related to pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood; support received from partners, family, and friends; ways of interacting and communicating with the child; and the participants’ sense of personal self-efficacy and self-awareness. Results: Fifteen women participated in this study, ten with a congenital visual impairment and five with an acquired disability. The mean age of the sample was 49 years. The qualitative content analysis of the transcripts of the interviews pointed out four main themes or categories: (1) pregnancy and motherhood experiences, (2) family and social support, (3) relationship and communication with the child, and (4) self-efficacy and self-awareness. Conclusions: This study underlined that mothers with visual impairments show a strong desire to be recognized and accepted as women and mothers by their social environment. Adequate social and family support is associated with a better sense of personal self-efficacy and greater confidence in one’s skills as a mother.