Experiences and Perceptions of Jordanian Women toward the Effects of COVID-19 and Its Vaccine on Reproductive Health

This study aims to explore the experiences and perceptions of Jordanian women regarding being infected with the coronavirus and its vaccine on their reproductive health. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used. Snowballing and volunteering approaches were used to interview nineteen Jordanian women who met the following inclusion criteria: Jordanian women of reproductive age (18–45 years); had been infected with coronavirus; married; sexually active; have a menstrual cycle; and who are willing to participate. Invitations for participation were sent via social media groups (WhatsApp and Facebook groups). Then, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted in a quiet place and were digitally recorded. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Giorgi’s manual thematic analysis. Three major themes emerged: “We are not like before,” with the following subthemes: “ Enduring physical strains ” and “ Enduring emotional strains ”; “Our reproductive health is affected,” with the following subthemes: “ Menstrual disturbances ,”“ Sexual life fluctuation ,” and “ Pregnancy and breastfeeding uncertainty. ” The third theme was “Women’s internal conflict about the Covid-19 Vaccine,” with the following subthemes: “ Upset from being felt obliged to take the vaccine ” and “ No intention to take further doses ,”“ Uncertainty about the manufacturing of the vaccine .” Jordanian women still report of different long-lasting complications and disturbances from the COVID-19 infection and its vaccine on their reproductive health. Findings from the current study may help healthcare professionals recognize Jordanian women’s needs regarding their reproductive health. Healthcare professionals and policymakers might also suggest the quality of care provided to those women who had challenging experiences. Perceptions of refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine and uncertainty about manufacturing were evident in the current study. Therefore, more effort from the government and policymakers is needed to correct the image of vaccine safety to suggest immunity among those women.