Pregnant Women’s Experiences of Antenatal Care and Family Medicine Application in Şanlıurfa: A Qualitative Study

Aim: Antenatal care, in general terms, is defined as medical care provided for the health of the mother and baby before birth. This study explores pregnant women's perceptions of the importance of antenatal care and the perceived role of family physicians in accessing these services. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 pregnant women who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic of Şanlıurfa Harran University Hospital. Thematic analysis, a type of qualitative research method, was used in the analysis of the data obtained from the interviews. Results: Tables containing participants' socio-demographic and health status information were made. Furthermore, the data were analyzed and four main themes emerged: ‘The Perceived Importance of Antenatal Care’, ‘Experiences Regarding Antenatal Care Application’, ‘Factors That Play A Role In Access to Antenatal Care’ and ‘The Role of Family Physicians in Seeking Antenatal Care’. Appropriate sub-themes and codes were then categorized and made into a table according to the relevant categories. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, suggestions were presented on how Antenatal Care can be strengthened.