A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of Mothers and Healthcare Professionals Caring for Preterm Babies in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract Background: Preterm survival and maternal mental health attract global health concerns. The experiences of healthcare professionals (HCPs) managing the preterm infant–mother dyad are unexplored in Nigeria. Objectives: We explored the lived experiences, challenges, and coping strategies of mothers with preterm infants, and the experiences of HCPs attending to the preterm infant–mother dyad in Abuja, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research design of a descriptive phenomenological approach with semi-structured interviews was used. Purposively sampled participants (10 mothers, five pediatricians, and five nurses) were recruited from Limi Children’s Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria, until data saturation was attained. Data was audio-recorded and transcribed using the TurboScribe.ai® software. Codes were manually generated, and themes formed and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. This study followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. Results: Overall, it was an emotionally and physically stressful experience for mothers of preterm infants and the HCPs caring for the premature babies. Five major themes determining the lived experiences of participants emerged: (1) experience as a spectrum; (2) how we coped; (3) how we supported the mothers; (4) meaning drawn; and (5) suggestions for improvement. Conclusion: Caring for preterm infants was emotionally and physically demanding for mothers and healthcare professionals, involving varied experiences, coping strategies, support needs, and meaning-making processes. Family and healthcare professional support were important in navigating these challenges. The findings highlight the need for compassionate communication and greater attention to the psychosocial wellbeing of mothers and healthcare professionals. Strengthening contextually appropriate support systems may improve their experiences of caring for preterm infants in Nigeria.