Table 3.
The analytical process
| Meaning units (selected) | Themes (selected) | Categories |
|---|---|---|
| Lack of competence by healthcare professionals |
The abuse as a non-physical act |
Abusive acts of non-intended harm |
| Initial great respect for the healthcare system |
Not intentional |
|
| Complete failure by the system |
|
|
| Fear of potential consequences to life and health |
Not being met with empathy |
Dehumanization |
| Fear of punishment |
Not being seen as a human individual |
|
| Being alone and abandoned |
Loss of trust |
|
| Struggling to survive |
|
|
| Treated with contempt |
|
|
| Fear of being seen as disgusting |
|
|
| Fear of being a burden |
|
|
| Not wanting to relate to bodily femininity |
Distorted perception of body |
Bodily remembrance |
| Lost confidence in capability of body |
Affected reproductive health |
|
| To experience severe fear of childbirth |
|
|
| Future wish for CS |
|
|
| Rather adopt than go through childbirth |
|
|
| Creating a sense of security |
Finding inner strength |
Finding the strength to move on |
| Confronting own fear |
Getting help from others |
|
| Learned to trust one’s self |
|
|
| Finding the strength when crossing barriers |