Lived Experiences of Hypertensive Mothers Delivering Preterm Babies: A Transcendental Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are high-risk conditions that often culminate in preterm delivery and expose mothers to profound physical, emotional, and psychosocial challenges. This study explored the lived experiences of hypertensive mothers who delivered preterm infants in selected public and private hospitals in Zamboanga del Norte. Guided by Moustakas’ transcendental phenomenological approach, this qualitative study recruited eight hypertensive mothers using purposive sampling. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed following the Moustakas’ framework for analysis. Five essential themes emerged from the analysis: (1) embodied challenges and adaptation and physical management; (2) temporal disruption and adaptation during preterm labor and postpartum recovery; (3) perceived safety as a dual experience of separation anxiety and security; (4) interpersonal networks as a source of strength; and (5) medical objects as instruments of safety and empowerment. The findings highlight that maternal resilience in hypertensive preterm birth is shaped by the dynamic interaction of physical conditions, emotional responses, relational support, care environments and medical resources. Based on the findings, the study recommends the integration of structured psychosocial support, family involvement and clear communication on medical interventions into maternal care to strengthen coping, safety and empowerment among hypertensive mothers delivering preterm babies.