Exploring Health-Seeking Behaviors in Iranian Women with High-Risk Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study

Articles in Press

Authors

1 Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran;

2 Department of Midwifery, Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran;

3 Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

10.30476/ijcbnm.2026.107770.2853

Abstract

Background: Health-seeking behaviors are essential for preventing pregnancy complications and
improving maternal and fetal health outcomes. In high-risk pregnancies, these behaviors constitute
a complex process influenced by various individual, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. This study
aimed to explore the health-seeking behaviors of Iranian women experiencing high-risk pregnancy.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted from August 2024 to March 2025 in Ahvaz, Iran.
Using purposive sampling with maximum variation, 24 participants (18 women with high-risk
pregnancies and 6 healthcare providers) were interviewed. Data were collected using in-depth, semistructured
interviews and continued until data saturation was achieved. The data were analyzed using
conventional qualitative content analysis based on the Elo and Kyngäs framework. MAXQDA software
version 20 was used for data organization and management.
Results: The data analysis identified three main categories and seven subcategories. The categories
included proactive health-seeking behaviors (health monitoring and care, and lifestyle-related
behaviors), reactive health-seeking behaviors (therapeutic and care reactions, information-seeking
reactions, and psychological reactions for stress management), and avoidant behaviors (avoidance of
seeking help and medical services and avoidance of social interaction).
Conclusion: Women with high-risk pregnancies exhibit diverse health-seeking behaviors. A
comprehensive understanding of these patterns enables healthcare providers and intervention program
designers to deliver targeted education and support, thereby reducing avoidant behaviors, promoting
proactive actions, and ultimately improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Keywords

International Journal of Community Based Nursing & Midwifery

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 13 July 2026

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