Family Experiences in Critical Decision-Making During the Perinatal Period: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) is one of the indicators used to assess women's health status. Maternal mortality remains a complex issue and is caused by the three delays (delayed recognition of pregnancy complications, delayed decision-making, and delayed access to healthcare facilities). The aim of this study was to identify the role of family involvement, particularly that of husbands, in maternal health and to explore decision-making patterns within families related to perinatal complications. This was a descriptive qualitative study using a phenomenological approach. The study involved six married couples in Klampok, Sidoharjo, Wonogiri. Decision-making in families, particularly regarding maternal health, is generally still dominated by husbands due to cultural factors and their role as breadwinners. Wives’ involvement increases when they have better education, knowledge, and economic access. Families with limited access tend to delay the use of healthcare services, highlighting the importance of increasing women’s involvement and access to information to support maternal health. Family decision-making, particularly regarding maternal health, is still largely dominated by husbands as the main authority figure. Although ideally decisions should be made through mutual discussion, in reality, only a few families truly reach a joint agreement. This dominance is influenced by various socioeconomic factors, such as knowledge level, education, occupation, cultural values, and the mother's health condition.