Experience of Mothers Who Gave Birth Prematurely

CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
This chapter includes the background of the study, statement of the
purpose, research questions, significance of the study, scope and limitations, and
definition of terms.
Background of the Study
Maternal age at pregnancy is increasing worldwide as well as preterm birth.
However, the association between prematurity and advanced maternal age
remains controversial (Fuchs et al., 2018). An estimated 15 million babies are born
too early every year. That is more than 1 in 10 babies. Babies born before thirty-
seven weeks of gestation are classified of premature. These babies are known
as preemies or premies. Preterm birth can be the result of multiple pathways. In
some women, labor begins early for reasons that are sometimes clear, such as
multiple pregnancy or infection, or for no apparent reason. Other women
experience ruptured membranes prior to the onset of labor and prior to 37 weeks.
Premature births can cause lifetime effects on infants as well as life
changing events for their families (Moore, 2002). Typically, complications of
prematurity vary. In Mayo Clinic website, not all premature babies experience
complications, being born too early can cause short-term and long-term health
problems. Short-term complications are breathing problems, heart problems, brain
problems, temperature control problems, gastrointestinal problems, blood
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problems, metabolism problems, and immune system problems. In the long-term
complications, premature birth may lead to cerebral palsy, impaired learning, vision
problems, hearing problems, dental problems, behavioral and psychological
problems, and chronic health issues. Generally, the earlier a baby is born, the
higher the risk of complications. Birth weight plays an important role, too. Some
problems may be apparent at birth, while others may not develop until later.
Globally, prematurity is the leading cause of death in children under the age
of 5 years. And in almost all countries with reliable data, preterm birth rates are
increasing. Preterm birth is the most common cause of death among infants
worldwide. About 15 million babies are preterm each year (5% to 18% of all
deliveries). More than 60% of preterm births occur in Africa and South Asia, but
preterm birth is truly a global problem. In the lower-income countries, on average,
12% of babies are born too early compared with 9% in higher-income countries.
Within countries, poorer families are at higher risk.
The Philippines is among the countries with the most number of babies
"born too soon," a United Nations agency claimed. The country was ranked 8th out
of 184 countries in terms of number of premature births based on latest data, the
UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) said in a statement (Patria, 2012). Out of the 2.3
million births in the Philippines in 2010, a total of 348,900 were premature
deliveries. This translates to a premature birth rate of 14.9 percent, the 12th
highest in the world, UNICEF said.
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The researchers conducted this study to have a deeper understanding and
knowledge about the experiences of mothers who gave birth prematurely. Also,
their insights and learnings can inspire other people, especially mothers.
Statement of the Problem
The purpose of this basic interpretive qualitative research study is to
develop a deeper understanding and knowledge about preterm birth experienced
by mothers with major cases. At this stage of the research, preterm birth will be
generally defined as (1) one of the leading causes of premature death, (2) common
problem during pregnancy and birth, and (3) factor that affects child's growth and
development.
1. What are your experiences in having a premature child?
2. How did you deal with these experiences?
3. What are your insights/learnings from the said experiences?
Scope and Limitations
The scope of the study will be the experiences and struggles of a mother
who gave birth prematurely in Cavite. Also, if possible, children who were born
prematurely with major complications will be interviewed. It's not always possible
to explain the causes of preterm birth and why it happened. There are risk factors
for being born early. This study will be conducted from July 2018 to October 2018.
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The study will limit the questions when the participant is not able to answer
it all, and when the question is too much and too personal for the participant. The
researchers won't force them to answer, instead they will just replace them by new
questions.
Significance of the Study
This research aims to contribute knowledge to the following people by the
shared experiences of the mothers that can help them on the things to do if ever
their child will be prematurely born or with complications.
Mothers with prematurely born child. This study will be significant to mothers
with prematurely born child for it will give them advices and experiences from other
mothers with same cases as them. Also, this study can inform them what are the
things they must do and must not do.
Soon-to-be mothers. This study will be significant to the women whose soon to
be mothers for it will inform them on the things they should do and shouldn’t do.
Also, this study will give them knowledge about the things that they don’t know yet.
Prematurely born children. This study will be significant to the children who were
prematurely born for them to realize that their lives was a gift from God. That their
mothers really love them despite of their complications. This study will also help
them in the future if ever they have loved ones who have their child prematurely
born.
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Definition of Terms
This study contains some terms that has other definitions connected to the
field of medicine. To have better understanding, these are the terms with their
definitions.
Disability. It is an impairment that may be cognitive, developmental, intellectual,
mental, physical, and sensory or some combination of these.
Experience. It is something that a mother has actually done or lived through.
Gestation stage. It is a fetal development from the time of conception until birth.
Maternal age. It is the age of the mother at the time of delivery.
Preemies. It is a baby that is born earlier than expected.
Premature death. It is the deaths that occur before a person reaches an expected
age. Many of these deaths are preventable.
Preterm birth. It is a birth that takes place more than three weeks before the
baby’s estimated due date.
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
This chapter renders review of other studies concerning the struggles of
mothers and the coping strategies. The main purpose of this review was to relate
the studies on how the struggles and experiences of mothers and her child affect
their lives.
Premature Birth
In general, a normal human pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, or just more
than 9 months, from the start of the last menstrual period to childbirth. Labor that
begins before 37 weeks is called preterm labor (or premature labor). Premature
birth is defined currently as 37 weeks or fewer gestation, but that target has been
moving over the past couple of decades. It used to say under 36 weeks. The
smallest babies fall within less than 26 weeks gestation (Henner, 2013).
Women who become pregnant again less than 18 months after having a
baby are more likely to deliver early, according to a new study. Past reports have
also linked having a short interpregnancy interval - the time between giving birth
and getting pregnant again - with a greater risk of premature birth (Lehman, 2014).
Premature babies, especially those born very early, often have complicated
medical problems. Typically, complications of prematurity vary. But the earlier the
baby is born, the higher the risk of complications. According to Medline Plus,
important growth and development happen throughout pregnancy - especially in
the final months and weeks. Because they are born too early, preemies weigh
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much less than full-term babies. They may have health problems because their
organs did not have enough time to develop.
According to report Born Too Soon: The Global Action Report on Preterm
Birth, each year, some 15 million babies in the world, more than one in 10 births,
are born too early. More than one million of those babies die shortly after birth;
countless others suffer some type of lifelong physical, neurological, or educational
disability, often at great cost to families and society.
According to EKS National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development (NICHD), preterm birth is the most common cause of infant death
and is the leading cause of long-term disability related to the nervous system in
children. Globally, prematurity is the leading cause of death in children under the
age of 5 years. And in almost all countries with reliable data, preterm birth rates
are increasing. Inequalities in survival rates around the world are stark. In low-
income settings, half of the babies born at or below 32 weeks (2 months early) die
due to a lack of feasible, cost-effective care, such as warmth, breastfeeding
support, and basic care for infections and breathing difficulties. In high-income
countries, almost all these babies survive (Donahue and Horrow, 2016).
Late preterm babies, those born between 32 and 37 weeks of pregnancy,
have a good chance of survival if the basic, low cost interventions are in place.
Around 84% of the 350,000 preterm babies that are born annually in the
Philippines fall into this category. Babies born between 32 and 37 weeks should
be able to survive with access to simple and affordable care.
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Today in the Philippines, 48% of children who die under the age of 5 years
are newborns, and 39% of these die from preterm complications, making this the
leading cause of newborn mortality. In 2011, 11,290 deaths were attributed to
preterm complications – the equivalent of 31 newborn deaths every day.
Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
Mothers who gave birth prematurely have a lot of experiences starting from
their delivery. First, physically, having a premature child is knowing to be blessed
with a very special child. Preemies are warrior babies that have had to fight to
survive. Appreciating and celebrating their milestone, no matter how small they
are. Premature parents appreciate every tiny indication of growth and progress
(Shield, 2018). Almost all premature children are sweet and caring.
According to Arnold & Sawyer (2011), the first contact between parent and
baby was characterized by turbulent emotions, whether it occurred immediately
after birth or later in NICU. The first time parents held their babies was often weeks
after the birth and clearly illustrated differences in parents’ bonding with their
infants. Two thirds of couples saw their baby at birth but remaining parents saw
their baby for the first time in NICU. No parents held or touched their baby until
they were in NICU. The anticipation felt by parents prior to seeing and touching
their baby for the first time was characterized by contrasting emotions, with some
parents feeling scared and others excited about the event.
Sometimes, mothers need to ask permission if they can touch their own
baby because of the complications they have. They need to learn about high tech
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medical equipment like ventilators and feeding tubes unlike having baby strollers
and diaper wipe warmers. Getting up all through the night, every night, because
the milk machine is empty that makes the baby cry. (Ringley, 2018).
According to Tommy’s (2017), insomnia or sleeping too much poor appetite
or overeating, sometimes with weight loss or gain trouble concentrating and
making decisions being restless, fidgety or overwhelmingly anxious negative or
guilty feelings, or feeling that they would be better off dead, or wanting to harm
themselves in very rare cases, hallucinations or delusions, such as hearing voices.
It’s important to be realistic: life with a new baby is unlikely to feel the same as life
before children. While the baby is in hospital, their daily routine may feel like a
treadmill of hospital visits, expressing milk and sleeping. Social activities, hobbies
and interests fall by the wayside for a while. Mothers will feel unbelievably tired,
and if their baby has health problems they will inevitably feel extremely distressed.
Second, emotionally, babies that were born prematurely are surely hurtful
on the mother's side but what's good in this is that the mother touches the skin of
the baby that she was longing to experience. By the excitement of delivering the
baby and then was birth earlier than expected time is surely nerve wracking but
knowing that the baby is on the right condition, it makes the mother feel like she is
the happiest woman in the world. There’s no such thing that can exceed mother's
love towards her child, her baby. The worry of the mother for the preterm baby is
maybe temporary and then be happier as usual, difference is that, she has now
her baby. Or it may be permanent (if the baby didn't make it) and worse, may lead
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the mother to have mental illness because of the trauma she experienced with her
baby (Patag, 2017).
Emotional health may include to one of the causes of a preterm labor, and
as for the vice versa of this, the preterm labor may also cause the mother to
experience problems with regards to the emotional health, the emotional struggles.
As well as feeling joy, love and happiness at the birth of the baby, this period can
also be extremely stressful and overwhelming. It is not unusual to feel quite
exhausted and unhappy or tearful for several months after having the baby. Many
parents find it difficult to focus on their own needs after having a new baby -
especially if she is unwell. If they are suffering from a complete lack of motivation
and feel very low after their premature birth, they could be depressed. In the case
of postnatal depression, this can sometimes include not feeling close to their baby
or enjoying being with her, which may be accompanied by a sense of guilt and
incompetence, feeling low, sad, guilty, tearful, helpless or hopeless, low self-
esteem, self-hatred and needing reassurance, feeling irritable and intolerant with
those around them, including the baby or partner finding it virtually impossible to
carry out even simple tasks.
They can expect to feel grief and anger – these are the feelings they
experience when real life doesn’t live up to the future they expected. Premature
birth is a traumatic experience. Having a premature baby is a huge adjustment and
it may take them a long time – and possibly professional help – to accept what has
happened. When a baby is born prematurely, parents often feel shocked,
confused, abandoned, powerless or guilty. Some feel grief because of what they
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fear the future may hold, and it is common to try to place blame for the situation on
others.
Third, socially, large number of studies in preterm-born children have
described a behavioral profile that seems consistent with the preterm behavioral
phenotype described earlier, and we invite the reader to refer to three meta-
analyses for further details (Bhutta et al., 2013). According to Published Findings,
very preterm-born children show significant emotional difficulties relative to peers
and these difficulties are identified by elevated scores on CBCL anxiety/depression
and SDQ emotional difficulties scales.
Researchers at the National Instituted for Health and Welfare and University
of Oulu in Finland found babies who were born prematurely had weaker muscles
than those born after 37 weeks. Their study suggested that their findings extends
to all premature babies, even those that are considered only slightly premature or
underweight. In addition, participants who were born before 37 weeks reported
feeling less physically fit than those born after the 37-week mark, though
researchers were reluctant to attribute lack of physical fitness later in life to
premature birth. There are many options and services open to families with
children who suffer from learning or developmental issues. Children with these
issues can still lead normal, fulfilling lives with the right support and tools. The
parents should monitor their child from a young age and keep watch for any signs
that their child may be suffering from learning difficulties, and then seek
appropriate help if need be (Sakellariou, 2017).
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Fourth, mentally, according to Moorhead (2015), giving birth to a premature
baby is a lot much harder than we thought, a lot much harder than those of the
term babies. Not just in physical, financial, emotional, spiritual and so whatever
but also in mental aspect of the parents, especially the mother. It is hard for the
mother if she gave birth earlier, preterm. She’s not mentally prepared. She did not
expect it to happen. And of course, because it is preterm, there is no assurance
that the baby will be fine so the mother will start worrying and will overthink about
the condition of her baby, her child. She will not be able to stop thinking until she
knew that her baby is safe.
Mothers experiencing a preterm birth are at risk for maternal mental health
issues, inclusive of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which
may affect mother-infant attachment and infant development. Depression and
PTSD, frequently comorbid, following preterm birth and relationships between
these symptoms, maternal-infant attachment, and infant development are
reviewed. Assessments and interventions potentially capable of benefitting mother
and infant are noted. The need for healthcare professionals to intervene prenatally
and at postpartum is significant as maternal distress remains one of the most
consistent factors related to infant development. Although depression has received
much attention in the literature as a risk factor for preterm birth, impaired
attachment, and delayed infant development, some of the consequences of PTSD
have only recently gained research attention. A few studies support the role of
PTSD in impaired maternal-infant attachment; yet, it is unclear whether preterm
infants of mothers experiencing symptoms of PTSD following birth are at a higher
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risk for motor development problems. Because early mother-infant interactions are
influenced by prematurity as well as maternal mental health, consideration for
home interventions that stimulate infant development and encourage mother-infant
relationships concurrently are important. Directed interventions may be beneficial
for infant development and aid in strengthening the mother-infant relationship,
potentially reducing depression and PTSD symptoms in the mother (Anderson &
Cacola, 2017).
Lastly, financial. Not all parents can afford what are the things a prematurely
born baby needs. Most of the things are expensive. Especially to single parents,
mostly mothers. Not all mothers have work or jobs where they can get money.
Also, mostly prematurely born babies mothers nowadays are teenagers. They
can’t easily find a job when they are still on school. Those were the disadvantages.
But there are also advantages. Mothers can seek help in the government since
there are agencies that are willing to help those who are in need. Also, their own
families and relatives, who can support the child.
Coping Mechanisms
Parents of NICU/SCN babies often feel a sense of loss, guilt, regret and
distress about how their baby came into the world. Many deliveries resulting
in NICU/SCN admission are traumatic ones, and not how we planned or imagined
having our baby to be.
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According to Hubbies Page, having a premature or sick newborn in hospital
is a very emotional and stressful time. Parents often feel powerless, intimidated
and controlled. They find themselves in a new environment where others have the
primary role of caring for their baby. Being the parents of a premature baby can be
very stressful. Mums and dads of premature babies often go through a lot of
emotional ups and downs in the early weeks and months of their baby’s life. When
they get practical help and emotional support from family and friends, parents often
cope a lot better with the experience. And when they’re managing well, they’re
better able to look after their baby.
It’s okay to ask parents what they need. Some parents want to shut
themselves off and cope with the situation alone or with a few close friends and
family. Respect their wishes, but at the same time let them know that you’re
thinking of them. You could try to offer help at different times. Some parents need
lots of people around for support. These parents might love having company at the
hospital. Some parents want to talk about things other than the baby (Raising
Children Network (Australia) Website).
According to Mkize (2017), Yonela Nxasana, a mother of premature baby,
asked the nurses in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care (NICU) ward to close the
curtain around her daughter’s incubator, so that she could do the only thing she
could think of at that moment, which was to pray. “I just prayed and asked God to
give me strength because from then on, I was going to need strength... to be strong
for her," she said.
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When a baby is born prematurely, parents often feel shocked, confused,
abandoned, powerless or guilty. Some feel grief because of what they fear the
future may hold, and it is common to try to place blame for the situation on others.
Emotional reactions are not always predictable. Having a premature baby is a huge
adjustment and it may take you a long time – and possibly professional help – to
accept what has happened (Tommy’s Website).
Synthesis
Having a premature child is not what any parent wants. When a baby is born
prematurely, parents often feel shocked, confused, abandoned, powerless or
guilty. It is a frightening ride into unknown territory. It is being thrust into the hardest
possible parenting struggle before they have even met their child. It is feeling
disconnected from the one person in the entire universe that they have been
waiting to connect with.
There are many causes that caused the early delivery of a mother. Some
say that it was because of "incompetent cervix." Mothers who have their baby
prematurely born are often frightened and nervous. It is really very hard for a
mother to have a premature baby because they'll never know what the things they
should do or how will they take care of their baby especially if there are major
complications like apnea, respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis,
anemia, and many more chronic diseases.
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Many of them don't understand what it feels like to have a premature baby
until they experience having one. There are a lot of variation in preemie outcomes,
and some parents have it easier or harder than others. Some will struggle more
and have a more complicated road to travel. How did they react the first time they
knew that their baby is premature, what are the steps that they followed in taking
care of their babies, are they building a stronger relationship with their baby, what
are the things that they avoided -- those were just few questions most of us want
to know? The purpose of this research is to deeply understand what the struggles
and the experiences of the parents are, especially the mothers.
Despite the long-term health difficulties that preemies may face, most
premature children are able to live long and healthy lives. It is imperative that their
parents pay extra attention to their health and developmental to address any
issues as soon as possible. But, so long as the proper medical attention and
support provided, those born prematurely can still lead fulfilling, happy lives.
Having a premature baby might be one of the hardest things that has ever
happened to them. But it might just be one of the best, too.
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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
This research chapter contains the research design and methodology of the
study. The purposes of this chapter are to define the research methodology,
explain the sampling, population, and describe the procedure that was used during
and after the data gathering and the data analysis.
Research Design
A research design is used in collecting and analyzing measures of any
variables specified in the research problem through the set of methods and
procedures. It is also defined as a blueprint for conducting a study with maximum
control over factors that may interfere with the validity of the findings (Burns and
Grove, 2003). Research design is the framework that has been created to find
answers to research questions.
Qualitative research is primarily exploratory research an extensive method
of developing more research methods (DeFranzo, 2011). It aims to get a better
understanding through first-hand experience, truthful reporting, and quotations of
actual conversations. Also, to understand how the participants derive meaning
from their surroundings, and how their meaning influences their behavior. This
uses observation as the data collection method.
This study focuses on the experiences, struggles, and coping mechanisms
of mothers. The researchers will use a basic interpretive design.
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This study involves these phases, namely conceptual, narrative, and
interpretive phases.
Conceptual Phase
In conceptual phase, the researchers will create the research
questions about the experiences, struggles, and coping mechanism of
mothers. At this research stage, it aims to identify every experience of some
mothers in Cavite who gave birth prematurely and to discover new
experiences that will be a motivation to others. Review of related literature
will be conducted for the researchers to fully understand the concept and
content of literature.
Narrative Phase
The narrative phase is the analyzing and planning the research
design. The main data collection instrument will be the researchers for they
are going to interview the participants. There will be ten participants who
are qualified for the criteria provided by the researchers.
Interpretive Phase
This phase involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of
data. The data and information that will be gathered during the interview
between the researchers and the participants. The researchers will find
other articles related to the topic that will act as the framework of the study.
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Research Population
Research population is a well-defined collection of individuals or objects
known to have similar characteristics. All individuals or objects within a certain
population usually have a common, binding characteristics or trait. In this study,
the target population are five mothers of a prematurely born baby with major
complications, which were chosen as the participants. The participants of the study
should encounter the criteria of presence which are as follow.
Sampling Technique
To ensure reliable and valid inferences from a sample, probability sampling
technique is used to obtain unbiased results (Suresh et al., 2011). A sampling
technique is the name or other identification of the specific process by which the
entities of the sample have been selected.
It is impractical and undesirable to study the whole population. If the sample
is too small or excessively large, it may lead to incorrect findings. This method is
done in research to find representative samples to avoid bias and to be able to
produce accurate results and to have a clear explanation about a certain event.
Research Instrument
The researchers use a one-on-one interview and social media to collect
data related to the experiences of having a prematurely born baby from the
participant. The researchers gathered questions based on the global issues and
concerns, including common problems and cases.
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To ensure the credibility of the data collection, the researchers take aside
the participants by interviewing and writing the opinions of the participants, which
are the mothers, about her experiences and struggles on having a prematurely
born baby.
Strategies of Inquiry
The researchers will be using one-to-one interview strategy between the
researchers and the participant. We will use cellphone that will allow us to connect
to the participants. Data inquiry will be held at the researchers’ place and also, at
the participants’ place. Through this, the researchers will ensure the confidentially
of the information given by the participants. The researchers will distribute guide
questions to facilitate and control the interview.
Date Gathering Procedure
This basic interpretive qualitative study involves the gathering of data using
one-on-one interview and communication. The gathered data will be coming from
five (5) mothers who experienced preterm birth and is focusing to those with major
complications. The researchers are the main instrument of a qualitative research,
where they observe, listen, and understand the information from the participant.
As a matter of fact, interviews are best used when there are only few related
studies about the topic. This can give different insights from different people and
regions. They can also help evaluate topics that are sensitive to be declared in a
group environment. The questions that will be given into the selected mothers will
be used to find out their struggles and experiences as a preterm birth patient.
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During the interview, the processes that happen are (1) respondents answer the
questions given, share their insights and experiences, and (2) the researchers’
record and analyze the data received.
Qualitative Data Analysis
The researchers will be conducting interviews, as to find out the different
experiences of the respondents. Most of the questions that will be given are about
the struggles and their impairments from the real word. Other questions will be
pertaining on how they survived, what factor required them to get through
obstacles and especially, what keeps them fighting and going.
The data will be analyzed by comparing the factors or the common factors
that they experience. By these common factors the researchers will be able to
know the most common things that they are encountering in their everyday lives.
The researchers will also know how they faced their lives in this world. It can also
be a guide to other people who is experiencing the same situation as what are they
experiencing.
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CHAPTER 4
DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION, AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
This chapter presents the results and interpretation of the data gathered
that will answer to the research questions given at the outset of the study.
The purpose of this basic interpretive qualitative research study is to
develop a deeper understanding and knowledge about preterm birth experienced
by mothers with major cases. At this stage of the research, preterm birth will be
generally defined as (1) one of the leading causes of premature death, (2) common
problem during pregnancy and birth, and (3) factor that affects child's growth and
development.
The following questions guided the research:
3. What are your insights/learnings from the said experience?
The participants were also asked about their biographical data such as age,
address, occupation, and type of complication. After the data gathering, the
researchers analyzed the answers through selective coding.
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Demographic Profile of Participants
The researchers provided the participants a demographic profile sheet for
them to fill out in order for the researchers to extract significant information from
them. Table 4.1 presents the demographic data of the mothers who participated in
the interviews conducted by the researchers.
All of the participants gave birth prematurely based on the demographic
profile that the researchers gathered. The participants answered what are their
experiences as a mother of premature child/children with major complications.
Table 4.1 Demographic Profile of the Participants
Participant Age Length of Type of Child’s Complication
Being Pregnant
1 44 8 months Twins (The other one died)
2 22 7 months Bleeding in Intestine
3 34 Polio
5 47 Immunodeficiency and Weak
Muscles
Method of Analysis
The researchers of the study analyzed and interpreted the answers of the
participants through selective coding. The responses were grouped and tabulated
through the responses, category, sub-category, theme, and core category which
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are divided based on the questions asked. The researchers compared the answers
of the participants.
Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely with Major
Complications
Mothers who gave birth prematurely have a lot of experiences starting from
their delivery. Their physical, emotional, social, mental, and financial aspects were
also affected. Some related studies and literatures provide information about it.
The findings of this study showed the different experiences of mothers. The
researchers also identified the themes that emerged from their responses. The
themes that emerged were:
 Positive Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
 Negative Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
The themes, with their accompanying categories and sub-categories, will
be discussed, illustrated by meaning units, and supported by a literature control.
Operational definitions are given for each category.
Theme 1: Positive Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
The researchers will discuss the experiences of mothers in having
premature child/children. The theme is about the positive experiences that the
mothers have faced. Participants shared their own experience through chat/social
media.
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Moreover, Table 4.2 presents the categories, as well as the sub-categories,
accompanied with the positive experiences of the participants.
Table 4.2 Positive Experiences of Mothers
Category Sub Category
 Difficulty in breastfeeding
Physical Experiences  Child delivery
 Prioritizing her child
 Deep sorrow
Emotional Experiences  Feeling relieved
 Joy and difficulties
 Sympathy from people
Social Experiences  Looking after her child
 Strong faith and positive mindset
Mental Experiences  Mindful about health
 Mentally responsible
 Financial stability
Financial Experiences  Government assistance
 Discount cards
Category 1: Physical Experiences
Operational Definition: It means difficulty in breastfeeding, child delivery,
and prioritizing her child.
Three (3) of the participants said that they had positive experiences. While
two (2) of the participants, participants 4 and 5, are the ones who said that they
have negative experiences.
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I delivered my eight-month twins... Breast milk only for him that I need to feed
him every 2 hours or less and my secretion of milk that time was not adequate.
(P1)
Pinakamasaya na siguro iyong nakaya ko i-normal si baby kahit na nawawalan

na ako ng tubig sa loob ng tiyan ko... (Maybe the most fulfilling part was I
delivered my baby normally even I lose water in my tummy…)
(P2)
Giving extra and special care to my child… magsasara muna ng tindahan,

minsan sayang ang benta, kailangan ding bigyan ng extra attention. (Giving
extra and special care… I need to close the store, sometimes our sales were
put to waste, and it also need an extra attention…)
(P3)
Physical experiences is very hard for a mother especially if her child’s
condition is severe. But even though it’s hard, three (3) of the participants said that
they have positive experiences.
Category 2: Emotional Experiences

Operational Function: It means feeling relieved, deep sorrow, and joy and
difficulties.
In emotional experiences, four (4) of the participants said that they have
positive experiences. While participant 4 said that she had negative experiences.
26
It makes me stronger and refuse to quit. Despite the sad part that I lost one of
my twins, there’s still one who lives and been a reason for me to move on and
get back my sanity.
(P1)
Gumagaan ang loob ko kapag nakikita mong lumalaban at bumubuti ang lagay
ng baby ko. (When I saw my baby fighting and getting better, I felt relieved.)
(P2)
Masaya ako kase una ko siyang anak. Nagulat ako kase nga napa- aga…
Masaya nung hiniga, nilagay siya nung doktor sa dibdib ko… Pinakamahi-rap
din kapag nagkakasakit siya, napakasakitin kase niya. (I felt happy because
he was my first son. I was shocked because I delivered him early… I was
happy when the doctor laid him down in my chest… It was also difficult when
he gets sick because he’s so prone to it.)
(P3)
I felt happy and relieved because I knew that my daughter survive despite
that she’s a premature child.
(P5)
27
According to Arnold & Sawyer (2011), the first contact between parent and
baby was characterized by turbulent emotions, whether it occurred immediately
after birth or later in NICU.
Category 3: Social Experiences

Operational Function: It means sympathy from people and looking after her
child.
Only two (2) of the participants said that they have positive experiences
when it comes to social. While three (3) of the participants said that they have
negative experiences.
The other one is a lovable kid so, no negative impression. For the people who
knew the story, they felt sad for the loss of the other twin. They said, “Naku
kung nabuhay siguro si Aeron, ang pogi din nun.” (If Aeron is still alive, I bet
he’s a good-looking man too.)
(P1)
Nakikipaglaro siya palagi sa ibang bata. Pinapayagan ko naman pero

kailangang may bantay. (He always plays with other children. I always allow
him but there’s always someone to look for him.)
(P3)
The parents should monitor their child from a young age and keep watch
for any signs that their child may be suffering from learning difficulties, and then
seek appropriate help if need be (Sakellariou, 2017).
28
Category 4: Mental Experiences
Operational Function: It means having positive mindset and strong faith, and
being mindful about health and mentally responsible.
All of the participants said that they have positive experiences when it comes
to mental. None of the participants said that they have negative experiences.
My concept & ideals in life – I’m a broad-minded person that it didn’t affect my
faith in God that there’s a good reason for all the trials that’s we’re going
through.
(P1)
Natuto akong maging matatag, magtiis, at magtiyaga sa lahat ng oras

sakripisyo at pila sa mga kailangang ayusin para sa bata. (Be careful especially
when you’re pregnant. Take care of yourself. Be strong and courageous all the
time. Do not hesitate to give up and let go in times of need.)
(P2)
‘Wag lang talagang panghihina-an ng loob, kase madali tayong matatalo ng

hirap, kawawa naman yung bata. Ako okay na kong mawala kase naitaguyod
ko na ang pamilya ko pero yung anak ko, marami pa siyang mararana-san eh.
(Don’t be weak, because we will be easily beat by the struggles in life the child
will be pity. It was okay for me to die because I already build my family up
but my child, he will still face different challenges in life.)
(P3)
29
Natuto ako mas maging responsable sa buhay at may mahabang pasensiya
para sa mga anak ko. Uunahin ko muna ang mga bata bago ang sarili o kung
ano pa man. Mas kailangan sila i-prioritize. (I learned to be more responsible
in life and have a longer patience for my twins. They come first before myself.
They need to be prioritized more.)
(P4)
It made me to be a positive thinker and more understanding.
(P5)
Most of the participants said that they have a positive mindset regarding on
having a premature child. Also, they become mentally responsible.
Category 5: Financial Experiences

Operational Function: It means having government assistance and discount
cards. Also, being financial stable.
All of the participants said that they didn’t have any negative experiences
when it comes to financial aspect.
I and my husband had job that time that I may say, we’re quite financial stable
that time.
(P1)
30
Financial assistance mula sa DSWD at PCSO sa ospital. (Financial assistance
from the DSWD and PCSO from hospitals.)
(P2)
Yung iba kong kakilala… Pero kami eh nabigyan na ng ID at booklet sa

Amadeo. Nakakadis-count kami ng kaunti sa mga gamot niya. (Other people
that I know… But we have an ID and booklet at Amadeo. So we have a discount
for his medicines.)
(P3)
Suporta simula nung baby sila tinutulungan sila makalabas ng ospital at

makabawas sa ibang gastos sa ospital. (The support coming from the
government helped us to discharge them and to lessen the hospital expenses.)
(P4)
We are able to get discount whenever we eat in a restaurant or fast-food chain.

Also, we have PhilHealth card which helps us to lessen the expenses in the
hospital.
(P5)
Mothers can seek help in the government since there are agencies that are
willing to help those who are in need. Also, their own families and relatives, who
can support the child.
31
Theme 2: Negative Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
premature child/children. The theme is about the negative experiences that the
mothers have faced. Participants shared their own experience through chat/social
media.
accompanied with the negative experiences of the participant
Table 4.3 Negative Experiences of Mothers

Physical Struggles  Going back and forth in the ICU

 Lack of sleep
 Worrying about the health of her
Emotional Struggles child
 Seeking help through social
Social Struggles media
 Knowing first their situation
 Trying to engage her child in
physical activities
Category 1: Physical Struggles
Operational Definition: It means having difficulties in going back and forth in
the ICU. It also means, lack of sleep.
Two (2) of the participants stated that they had physical struggles.
Participants 4 and 5 are the ones who have physical struggles.
32
Two months sila sa hospital, two months din ako pabalik-balik sa ICU para i-
check at bantayan sila. (They are in the hospital for two months and I’m also
going back and forth for two months in the ICU to check and watch over them.)
(P4)
I have two premature children.… I don’t have enough time to sleep and rest
because I need to observe and watch my child.
(P5)
According to Ringley (2018), physical struggles can be experienced getting
up all night and learning about high tech medical equipment like ventilators and
feeding tubes. Other participants didn’t experience this situations. Participants 1
and 2 have difficulties in breast feeding and child delivering, respectively but they
considered it as positive experience.
Category 2: Emotional Struggles
Operational Definition: It means worrying about the health of her child.
One (1) of the participants stated that she had emotional struggles.
Participants 1, 2, 3 and 5 did not have emotional struggles.
33
Pray lang kay Lord… kapag may sakit sila, doon ako pinanghihina-an ng loob
dahil hindi naman sila normal ipinanganak nandun pa rin ‘yung kaba. (Just pray
to the Lord… when they are sick. I am discouraged because they were not
normally born, the nervousness is still there.).
(P4)
According to Patag (2017), by the excitement of delivering the baby and
then was birth earlier than expected time is surely nerve wracking but knowing that
the baby is on the right condition, it makes the mother feel like she is the happiest
woman in the world.
Category 3: Social Struggles
Operational Definition: It means seeking help through social media,
knowing first their situation, and trying to engage her child in physical activities.
Three (3) participants experienced social struggles. Participants 2, 4, and 5
faced social struggles in having premature child.
Naranasan kong… mag-post at humingi ng tulong thru social media, mag-chat

at mag-text sa mga kaibigan ko. Medyo mahirap kase hindi naman agad
mapapansin ng mga tao. (I experienced… posting on social media and asking
for their help, also chatting and texting my friends. It becomes hard because
only few paid attention to the post.)
(P2)
34
Naapektu-han ako socially, kasi sa tuwing may mag-aaya na makipaglaro sa
anak ko kailangan pa nilang magpaalam at kailangan ko munang alamin ang
sitwason ng anak ko. (It affected me socially because every time that other kids
invite my daughter to play with them, they need to ask my permission and I
need to know my daughter’s condition first.)
(P4)
One of my social struggles is attempting to engage my child to physical

activities together with the other children.
(P5)
Participant 2 had a hard time asking help in social media for her premature
child. While participants 4 and 5 need to check first their child’s condition before
allowing them to play or engage in different kinds of physical activities.
Participants who were born before 37 weeks reported feeling less physically
fit than those born after the 37-week mark, though researchers were reluctant to
attribute lack of physical fitness later in life to premature birth (Sakellariou, 2017).
Coping Strategies of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
The findings of the study showed the coping strategies of mothers who gave
birth prematurely with major complications. The researchers identified the theme
that emerged from the responses. The theme that emerged was:
 Active Coping Strategy
35
The theme, with its accompanying categories and sub-categories, will be
discussed, illustrated by meaning units, and supported by a literature control.
Theme 1: Active Coping Strategy
premature child/children. The theme is about the coping strategies of the mothers
that have used in order to handle their struggles. Participants shared their own
experience through chat/social media.
accompanied with the positive experiences of the participants
Table 4.4 Active Coping Strategy
 Support from family

Family
 Presence of family
 Strong faith
Faith in God
 God’s assistance
Emotional outburst  Crying
Time
Category 1: Family
Operational Definition: It means support and presence of the family.
All of the participants stated that they coped with their struggles through
their family.
36
I just let my emotions help me in coping up. I just let it flow. I cried when I feel
like. Time helps me heal the wound of losing. Glad, that I have one son left to
take care of and a family that’s been there to help me when I needed them
most. I’m a broad-minded person that it didn’t affect my faith in God that there’s
a good reason for all the trials that’s we’re going through.
(P1)
Hinarap ko ang problemang ito kasama ang aking pamilya, humingi ng tulong
sa Diyos, nagdasal at kumilos. (I faced this problem together with my family. I
asked God’s help and guidance, prayed and moved.)
(P2)
Pray lang talaga. Lagi ring nandyan yung mga kamag-anak at kaibigan ko para
tumulong. (Just pray. And beside my family and friend were always there to
help.)”
(P3)
Sa tulong ng mga magulang ng asawa ko at patuloy na paghingi ng guidance

at assistance sa Diyos. (With the help of my in-laws and continuously praying
to the Lord for guidance and assistance.)
(P4)
I always remind myself that God and my family is always there beside me to
comfort and motivate me.
(P5)
37
According to Raising Children Network (Australia) Website, some parents
want to shut themselves off and cope with the situation alone or with a few close
friends and family. Some parents need lots of people around for support. The
results of the study proves this statement. All participants were given support from
their family.
Category 2: Faith in God
Operational Definition: It means asking God’s assistance and having strong
faith.
Four (4) of the participants stated that they coped with their struggles
through their faith in God.
Hinarap ko ang problemang ito kasama ang aking pamilya, humingi ng tulong
sa Diyos, nagdasal at kumilos. (I faced this problem together with my family. I
asked God’s help and guidance, prayed and moved.)
(P2)
Pray lang talaga. Lagi ring nandyan yung mga kamag-anak at kaibigan ko para
tumulong. (Just pray. And beside my family and friend were always there to
help.)
(P3)
38
Sa tulong ng mga magulang ng asawa ko at patuloy na paghingi ng guidance
at assistance sa Diyos. (With the help of my in-laws and continuously praying
to the Lord for guidance and assistance.)
(P4)
I always remind myself that God and my family is always there beside me to
comfort and motivate me.
(P5)
According to Mkize (2017), Yonela Nxasana, a mother of a premature baby,
just pray and asked God to give her strength from then on. Participants 2, 3, and
4 prayed and asked God’s help and assistance. While participant 5 remind herself
that God is always with her.
Category 3: Emotional Outburst
Operational Definition: It means crying when she feels.
Participant 1 just let her emotions take her. When she wants to cry, she just
let it flow.
(P1)
39
Some parents want to shut themselves off and cope with the situation alone
or with a few close friends and family. Respect their wishes, but at the same time
let them know that you’re thinking of them (Raising Children Network (Australia)
Website).
Category 4: Time
Operational Definition: It means time heals the wound of losing.
Time helped Participant 1 to cope up for her lost son. It helped her to heal
the wound of losing.
(P1)
According to Tommy’s Website, emotional reactions are not always
predictable. Having a premature baby is a huge adjustment and it may take you a
long time – and possibly professional help – to accept what has happened.
Insights and Learnings of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely
The findings of the study showed the insights and learnings of mothers who
gave birth prematurely. The researchers identified the theme that emerged from
the responses. The theme that emerged was:
40
 Positive Insights and Learnings
The theme, with its accompanying categories and sub-categories, will be
discussed, illustrated by meaning units, and supported by a literature control.
Theme 1: Positive Insights and Learnings
In this part of the paper, the researchers will discuss the experiences of
mothers who gave birth prematurely with major complications. The theme is about
how the mothers made improvements in themselves based on their learnings from
their experiences. Participants shared their own experience through chat/social
media.
accompanied with the insights and learnings of the participant.
Table 4.5 Insights and Learnings
Category Sub-Category
Personal Beliefs  God’s challenge
Family  Loving family more
Strong mindset  Being careful and tough
Being optimist  Thankful for the child’s life
 Thinking positive reasons
Category 1: Personal Beliefs
Operational Definition: It means considering it as God’s challenge.
41
Participant 4 believed that having a premature children with major
complication is a challenge from God.
Para sa akin may dahilan kung bakit nangyari ito at sa palagay ko ay hinahanda
at sinusubukan ako ng Panginoon kung gaano katatag ang pananampalataya
ko sa Kanya. (For me, there is a reason why all of these happened to us maybe
God allows this to happen because He measures our faith in Him.).
(P4)
One of the important subcategory in participants’ experiences from mothers’
asking help behavior was seeking help from God, who has a supernatural power.
Following the spirituality resort and entrusting the destiny determined by God,
struggled during a stressful event of premature birth and handled neonatal
intensive cares. Religious well-being of participants was the background for some
of their behaviors such as begging and trusting God, appealing to the Imams,
adherence to the Qur'an and seeking help from God was experienced for most
women. They supposed this event as God's will and surrounded them to the
providence of God (Arzani et al., 2015).
Category 2: Family
Operational Definition: It means loving the family more.
Participant 1 thought positive things which helped her to cope up. Also, it
made her to love her family more.
42
I believe that there’s a good reason why things happened to us unexpectedly.
From this experiences, I should be positive on things that didn’t come my way.
It helped me to cope up. It also made me to love my family more.
(P1)
According to Arzani & Valizadeh (2015), experiences of mothers in this
study indicated that they need help and support from spouse, family, friends,
relatives and health care team. Due to the changes, they were not able to perform
their roles completely and they need help in furthering their daily tasks towards
infants and families.
Category 3: Strong Mindset
Operational Definition: It means being careful and tough. Not giving up in
difficult times.
Participant 2 learned to be strong and courageous at all times. Also, she
didn’t hesitate to give up and let go.
Maging ma-ingat lalo na’t buntis. Huwag pabayaan ang sarili. Maging matatag
at maging malakas ang loob sa lahat ng oras. Huwag basta-basta susuko at
bibitaw lalo na sa panahong kinakaila-ngan. (Be careful especially when you’re
pregnant. Take care of yourself. Be strong and be courageous all the time. Do
not hesitate to give up and let go in times of need.).
(P2)
43
According to Arzani & Valizadeh (2015), one of the main strategies mothers
used emerged to be patience, tolerance, and dealing and coping with problems. It
sapped their energy and made them feel too intolerant and weak to cope with these
problems. But, when their motherhood instinct flourished, they tried to gradually
accept their situation and fight with their weaknesses by not giving up and
persistence.
Category 4: Being optimist
Operational Definition: It means being thankful for the baby’s life and
thinking positive reasons.
Three (3) participants learned to think positive things despite of their
situations. They thought the positive reasons to improve themselves.
I believe that there’s a good reason why things happened to us unexpectedly.

From this experiences, I should be positive on things that didn’t come my way.
It helped me to cope up. It also made me to love my family more.
(P1)
Kahit ganto ‘yung sitwasyon namin, hindi naman kami nilalayuan ng mga tao,
tinutulungan pa nga kami. Basta napagisip-isip ko rin na maswerte ako dahil
nabuhay ang bata. Nabigyan siya ng pagkakata-ong mabuhay at maging
masaya. (Even though our situation is like this people don’t go away from us
instead they help us. So I think I was so lucky because the child was alive. That
he was given a chance to live his life and be happy.)
(P3)
44
Thinking about positive things because I know things are going to be alright. I
know that God is challenging me because everything happens for a reason.
(P5)
Focusing on positive aspects, they were hopeful for future good days and
conditions. They plan for future and try to calm down by thinking about positive
aspects. In fact, they attempted to struggle with their negative feelings towards the
condition (Arzani et al., 2015).
45
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATIONS AND IMPLICATIONS
Summary of the Study
This study has taken steps to gain deeper understanding on what mothers
really experience in having premature child with major complications. Many people
don’t understand what it feels like to have a premature baby until they experience
having one. This study delved into the experiences of mothers who gave birth
prematurely so that their experiences will finally be known.
Research Design
Research design is the framework that has been created to find answers to
research questions. The researchers used the qualitative type of research. It aims
to get a better understanding through first-hand experience, truthful reporting, and
quotations of actual conversations. Also, to understand how the participants derive
meaning from their surroundings, and how their meaning influences their behavior.
This uses observation as the data collection method. The basic interpretive
qualitative research type was used in this study. The case study research design
was used in this study, which involved the conceptual, narrative and interpretive
phases. The interviews were conducted on September and October 2018.
The selected participants of the study were mothers who gave birth
prematurely living in Cavite. The participants were five (5).
46
The data collected was analyzed and transcribed after conducting the
interviews. The translated data was interpreted through the process of coding in
order to get the core categories and the categories. Selective coding was done to
analyze the collected data. It was arranged and tabulated with the answers of the
participants, the code used for the categories, the sub-categories, etc. Through
selective coding, the researchers have been able to identify the themes regarding
the experiences, coping strategies and learnings of mothers who gave birth
prematurely.
Results for Research Question #1
From child delivery, the mothers had positive and negative experiences.
They encountered different experiences when they delivered their child and as
their child grows up. The mothers had more positive experience than negative
ones.
The mothers who gave birth prematurely had positive experiences in
different aspects, which are the physical, emotional, social, mental, and financial
aspects. Their positive experiences were difficulty in breastfeeding, child delivery,
prioritizing her child, deep sorrow, feeling relieved, joy and difficulties, sympathy
from people, looking after her child, strong faith and positive mindset, mindful about
health, mentally responsible, financial stability, government assistance, and
discount cards. On the other hand, the negative experiences were going back and
forth in the ICU, lack of sleep, worrying about the health of her child, seeking help
through social media, knowing first their situation, and trying to engage her child in
physical activities. There are more positive experiences than negative. This
47
indicates that mothers didn’t suffer on having a premature child with major
complications.
In the midst of struggling, the mothers have used coping strategies in order
to overcome those struggles. These coping strategies helped them to conquer
these problems. All of the participants performed the active coping strategies.
The mothers have coped with their struggles through family, faith in God,
emotional outburst, and time. Support and presence of the family helped them in
facing those struggles. They have strong faith. They also asked God’s guidance
and assistance. The mothers have also coped by emotional outburst. Turning
those struggles into positive things helped them overcome their challenges.
According to Tommy’s Website, emotional reactions are not always
predictable. Having a premature baby is a huge adjustment and it may take you a
long time – and possibly professional help – to accept what has happened.
Participants used effective strategies in coping up.
Mothers underwent different struggles. In those struggles they overcome,
they learned a lot of things. Mothers with premature child showed their capabilities.
Their insights and learnings helped them to improve themselves.
48
The mothers made their struggles as motivation in continuing their lives. For
some mothers whose child died because of premature birth, they have stronger
faith in God and realized that there is a reason for that.
Mothers love their family more and they are thankful for the baby’s life. They
learned to think the positive side and didn’t hesitate to give up. They valued their
learnings and used them in order to develop and improve themselves.
Conclusion and Implications
Research question no. 1 asked about the experiences of mothers who gave
birth prematurely with major complications. They had more positive experiences
than negative experiences. In the physical, emotional, mental, and financial
aspects, the mothers had more positive experiences. They only had more negative
experiences in the social aspect. The common experience that the participants had
is benefits coming from the government.
In addition, research question no. 2 asked about the coping strategies of
mothers. Since they have experienced many struggles, they had to perform coping
strategies in order to overcome them. All of the mothers used active coping
strategy. They didn’t avoid their premature child instead they love them more. Their
families helped them to cope up. They also asked God’s help and assistance to go
through those struggles. The coping strategies that the participants used were
effective because they were able to learn different things and it helped them to
think the positive side.
49
Moreover, research question no. 3 asked about the insights and learnings
of mothers. After experiencing different struggles and coping with them, the
participants used their experiences as their learnings. These learnings made a
greater improvement in the lives. They learned to be optimistic. Also, this struggle
made them to love their family more. With these experiences, they improved
themselves.
This study can inspire other people, especially mothers. Having a premature
child with major complication brings many struggles. These struggles helped them
to change their perspective in life. They learned to be tough at all times. Changing
these struggles into lessons improved their personality.
Recommendations
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Students
STEM students, especially those who are taking medicine in college, will be
able to use this study to gather information about premature birth and its
complications.
Mothers
Mothers can also look for some coping strategies that they can use in
overcoming their struggles. They can use the coping strategies that the
participants used if they are also experiencing the same situation. They should not
hesitate to give up and lose hope.
50
Future Researchers
Based on the data and the conclusion of this study, the following topics for
additional research are recommended:
Additional research is needed in order to determine other coping strategies
that may be used by mothers who gave birth prematurely with major complications.
Further research is also needed to know the different experiences of mothers and
her child.
51
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remature-birth/coping-premature-birth/premature-birth and-depression
World Health Organization. (n.d.-a). Preterm Birth. Retrieved February 19, 2018
from http://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/preterm-birth
54
Rogationist College  Senior High School Department
(St Anthony’s Boys Village), Inc.
Km. 52 E. Aguinaldo Highway, Lalaan 2, Silang Cavite
Tel.: (046) 414-0448  Fax: (046) 414-2198; 414-1014
APPENDIX A: Letter to the Participants
September ___, 2018
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
Dear Mrs. _____________:
Good day!
We, the researchers from Rogationist College Senior High School Department, are
currently working on a qualitative research entitled “Experiences of a Mother Who
Gave Birth Prematurely with Major Complications in Cavite” as our performance
task in the subject Inquiries, Investigations, and Immersion. This study aims to develop
a deeper understanding and knowledge about preterm birth experienced by mothers
with long-term cases.
In line with this, we would like to ask you to be part of this study and be one of our
research participants. We believe that the experiences you will share with us would be
of great value for the completion and accuracy of our research work.
Rest assured that all the information gathered will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
Attached are the interview questions and consent form for your reference.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
FRANCES JOAN E. CAMITAN LARA ALEXANDREA B. DE LEON

Researcher Researcher
PATRICIA MAE A. LEONARDO MARC STEPHEN C. MALARAYAP

Researcher Researcher
ANNA MARI V. SULIT

Researcher
Noted: Approved:
MRS. MARITES D. YAYONG MR. LOUIE SONNY D. RIVERA

Practical Research 1 Teacher Principal, Senior High School
55
Education through Discipline, Attitude and Character Building.
Tel.: (046) 414-0448  Fax: (046) 414-2198; 414-1014
APPENDIX B: Informed Consent Form

Agreement to Participate in Research
Researchers: Frances Joan E. Camitan de Leon, Lara Alexandrea B.

Patricia Mae A. Leonardo Marc Stephen C. Malarayap
Anna Mari V. Sulit
Title of Research: Experiences of a Mother Who Gave Birth Prematurely with Major
Complications in Cavite
You have been asked to participate in a research study investigating the experiences of a
mother who gave birth prematurely.
1. You will be asked to respond to several interview questions during an unstructured

interview session. The interview will be voice recorded for the preservation of your
words, and it will be arranged according to the researchers’ convenience.
2. There are no anticipated risks associated with your participation in this study.
3. There are no expected benefits associated with your participation in this study.
However, you may gain new understanding of your experiences.
4. Any information that the researchers can gather in this study will be used for
academic purposes only. Researchers will not receive or retain any personal
identifiable information though a few demographic data points will be analyzed.
5. Even though the results of this study may be published, we will not include any
information that would make it possible to identify you. Any information that can be
gathered from you will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
6. There will be no compensation involved for your participation in this study.
7. Questions about this research may be addressed to the researchers, Frances

Camitan at 0916 232 0314, Lara de Leon at 0966 256 1253 or
lara_alexandrea@yahoo.com, Patricia Leonardo at 0906 907 5186 or
leonardopatricia126@yahoo.com, Marc Malarayap at 0977 304 1064 or
msmalarayap@gmail.com, and Anna Sulit at 0908 266 3765 or
annamarisulit@yahoo.com. Complaints and questions about the research may be
presented to Mrs. Marites D.Yayong, the Practical Research Teacher and Vice
Principal of 72 Rogationist College Junior High School Department at 0915 960
1387 or at maritesdyayong@gmail.com, or to Mr. Louie Sonny D. Rivera, Principal
of Rogationist College Senior High School Department at (046) 414 0448 or (046)
414 0125.
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8. Refusal or discontinued  participation in the study will not result in any penalty or
loss of benefits or rights which you might otherwise be entitled.
9. Your consent is being given voluntarily. You are free to refuse or withdraw your
participation at any point and anytime in the study without affecting your
relationship with the researchers of this study. You have the right to not answer
questions you do not wish to answer.
“I, ___________________________________, have read the statements

above, and by signing and dating my name above the participant’s name and
date, I am giving my consent for the researchers to use my information for
the benefit of the study.”
_____________________________________ _______________
Participant ‘s Signature Date
_____________________________________ _______________
Researcher ‘s Signature Date
_____________________________________ _______________
_____________________________________ _______________
_____________________________________ ________________
_____________________________________ ________________
* The signature of a subject on this document indicates agreement to participate in the

study.
* The signature of a researcher on this document indicates agreement to include the
above-named subject in the research and attestation that the subject has been fully
informed of his or her rights.
Please indicate below if you wish to receive a summary of the findings of this research,
which will be available around March 2018. YES ___ NO ___
Address:
________________________________________________________________
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APPENDIX C: Interview Questions
Participant # Age: ____

Type of Child’s Complication: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________________________
Occupation: _________________________________________
Interview Questions:

1.1 Physical
1.1.1 Does the struggle that you’re experienced affect you? How?
1.1.2 What is your most fulfilling and difficult experience?
1.1.3 When you are experiencing the struggle that you mentioned, what do
you usually do?
1.2 Emotional
1.2.1 In times of difficulties, what makes you stronger and refuse to quit?
1.2.2 How does looking at your child suffer feels like? Seeing him
overcome those challenges.
1.3 Social
1.3.1 What are the different impressions that people say to your child?
1.3.2 How do your child socialize with other children?
1.4 Mental
1.4.1 Does having premature child changed some of your concepts and
ideals in life?
1.4.2 How can mindset affect your everyday lives?
1.5 Financial
1.5.1 What are the benefits and supports that you get from the government?
1.5.2 How does the special care needed by your child affect your financial
stability?
3. What are your insights/learnings from the said experience?
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APPENDIX D: Transcript of the Interview
Participant 1
Transcription and Translation
Interviewer: What are your experiences in having a premature child?
Interviewee: On March 24, 2007, I delivered my eight-month twins. It’s a sad thing
that the other one, Aeron didn’t make it. He just lived for 36 hours. The other one,
Andrei is now in Grade 6. Physically, my struggle that affects me – The one that
lived was just 1.7 kilos when I delivered him. Very small, fragile and delicate that
really needs my special attention. Breast milk only for him that I need to feed him
every 2 hours or less and my secretion of milk that time was not adequate. And
he’s been in NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) for 2 weeks. I just signed a
waiver for the release of my boy in the hospital to be home. As I said before, my
most difficult experience was the other one just lived for 36 hours.
Interviewer: What did you feel when you knew that one of the twins survived?
Interviewee: It makes me stronger and refuse to quit. Despite the sad part that I
lost one of my twins, there’s still one who lives and been a reason for me to move
on and get back my sanity.
Interviewer: Does Andrei have any complications?
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Interviewee: Yes. He has an asthma. The doctor said that it’s because his lungs
was not fully developed when he was born. But we’re doing what we can as a
parent to make him better.
Interviewer: What are the impressions to your child regarding his complication?
Interviewee: The other one is a lovable kid so, no negative impression. For the
people who knew the story, they felt sad for the loss of the other twin. They said,
“Naku kung nabuhay siguro si Aeron, ang pogi din nun.” (If Aeron is still alive, I bet
he’s a good-looking man too.)
Interviewer: How did it affect you mentally?
Interviewee: My concept & ideals in life – I’m a broad-minded person that it didn’t
affect my faith in God that there’s a good reason for all the trials that’s we’re going
through.
Interviewer: How did you sustain his financial needs?
Interviewee: I and my husband had job that time that I may say, we’re quite
financial stable that time.
Interviewer: So, how did you deal with these experiences?
Interviewee: Dealing for the loss of my other twin was really the hard part. I
remember two years after that happened, I’m still crying whenever I see children
quite same as my twin’s age. Charlene and Aga Muhlach’s twins, and Carmina
and Zoren Legaspi’s twins, seeing them in commercials made me cry. I miss
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Aeron. I just let my emotions help me in coping up. I just let it flow. I cried when I
feel like. Time helps me heal the wound of losing. Glad, that I have one son left to
take care of and a family that’s been there to help me when I needed them most.
Interviewer: Based on your experiences ma’am, what are your insights/learnings?
Interviewee: I believe that there’s a good reason why things happened to us
unexpectedly. From this experiences, I should be positive on things that didn’t
come my way. It helped me to cope up. It also made me to love my family more.
Interviewer: Thank you very much, Mrs. Nicolas.
Participant 2
Interviewer: Ano pong ang mga experiences niyo sa pagkakaroon ng premature
na anak? (What are your experiences in having a premature child?)
Interviewee: Naranasan kong magsakripisyo para sa aking anak. Naranasan
kong mag-post at humingi ng tulong thru social media, mag-chat at mag-text sa
mga kaibigan ko. Medyo mahirap kase hindi naman agad mapapansin ng mga tao.
(I experienced a lot of sacrifices for my child. I experienced posting on social media
and asking for their help, also chatting and texting my friends. It becomes hard
because only few paid attention to the post.)
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Interviewer: Ano po ang pinakasamasaya ninyong experience? E ang
pinakamahirap? (What is your most fulfilling and difficult experience?)
Interviewee: Pinakamasaya na siguro iyong nakaya ko i-normal si baby kahit na
nawawalan na ako ng tubig sa loob ng tiyan ko; pinakamahirap na experience ko
ay iyong makita ko siyang umiiyak dahil sa sakit ng tusok ng karayom, na araw-
araw blood testing palagi. (Maybe the most fulfilling part was I delivered my baby
normally even I lose water in my tummy; the hardest part was seeing my baby
cries because of the pain caused by injections, blood testing every day.)
Interviewer: Sa mga oras ng kahirapan, ano po ang nagpapatatag sa inyo? (In
times of difficulties, what makes you stronger and refuse to quit?)
Interviewee: Gumagaan ang loob ko kapag nakikita mong lumalaban at bumubuti
ang lagay ng baby ko. (When I saw my baby fighting and getting better, I felt
relieved.)
Interviewer: What do others say about your baby?
Interviewee: Sinabi nila na kaya ‘yan ni baby makakaraos at makakalabas din
siya. (They told me that my baby can survive and he will go out of the hospital
immediately.)
Interviewer: Nagbago po ba ng inyong konsepto at pananaw sa buhay nang
magkaroon po kayo ng premature child? (Does having premature child changed
some of your concepts and ideals in life?)
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Interviewee: Siguro lahat ng ipinagbabawal kailangan sundin. Lahat ng ibinilin
kailangang tuparin. (Maybe all the restrictions must be obeyed. All the instructions
must perform.)
Interviewer: Paano po nakaapekto ang inyong pag-iisip sa pang-araw-araw na
buhay? (How can mindset affect your everyday lives?)
Interviewee: Natuto akong maging matatag, magtiis, at magtiyaga sa lahat ng
oras sakripisyo at pila sa mga kailangang ayusin para sa bata. (I learned to be firm
and patient, and to persevere at all times.)
Interviewer: Ano pong mga benefits at suporta ang natatanggap niyo mula sa
ating gobyerno? (What are the benefits and supports that you get from the
government?)
Interviewee: Financial assistance mula sa DSWD at PCSO sa ospital. (Financial
assistance from the DSWD and PCSO from hospitals.)
Interviewer: Paano niyo po hinarap ang mga experiences na ito? (How did you
deal with these experiences?)
Interviewee: Hinarap ko ang problemang ito kasama ang aking pamilya, humingi
ng tulong sa Diyos, nagdasal at kumilos. (I faced this problem together with my
family. I asked God’s help and guidance, prayed and moved.)
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Interviewer: Ano po ang mga naging aral niyo sa mga experiences na ito? (What
are your insights/learnings from the said experience?)
Interviewee: Maging ma-ingat lalo na’t buntis. Huwag pabayaan ang sarili. Maging
matatag at maging malakas ang loob sa lahat ng oras. Huwag basta-basta susuko
at bbitaw lalo na sa panahong kinakailangan. (Be careful especially when you’re
pregnant. Take care of yourself. Be strong and be courageous all the time. Do not
hesitate to give up and let go in times of need.)
Interviewer: Maraming salamat po. (Thank you so much.)
Participant 3
Interviewee: Giving extra and special care to my child, kailangan minsan
magpacheck-up, magsasara muna ng tindahan (minsan sayang ang benta),
kailangan ding bigyan ng extra attention. Kunwari kapag naglalakad, hirap kase
siya minsan, mas lalo kapag nasa kalsada kami (Giving extra and special care to
my child, cause we need to see a doctor so I need to close the store, sometimes
our sales were put to waste, it also need an extra attention. For example when
walking, sometimes it was hard for him especially when we are on the street)
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Interviewer: Does the struggle that you experienced affect you? How?
Interviewee: Noong una, napaka-big deal, nakakapanibago kase una ko siyang
anak tapos may sakit pa. Naghahalo ‘yung takot at saya kase diba kapag unang
anak hindi pa sanay tapos parang nangangapa ka pa at nag-aadjust tapos kapag
premature eh medyo mahirap. Mag-aalala ka, hindi mo alam gagawin. (At first it
was a big deal, because it was new to me since he was my first child and he has
complications. It was mixed emotions because he’s my first child and I’m still not
used to it and it seems to be like you still don’t know what to do, you need to adjust
but then it was premature so it was hard. You’re worried and don’t know what to
do.)
Interviewer: What is your most fulfilling and most difficult experience?
Interviewee: Masaya ako kase una ko siyang anak. Nagulat ako kase nga napa-
aga. Mukha naman siyang normal, maliit lang medyo tsaka malambot-lambot mas
lalo na yung ulo. Masaya nung hiniga, nilagay siya nung doktor sa dibdib ko. Nung
habang lumalaki siya, doon na namin nalaman na may polio, after ilang weeks,
nilalagnat na siya tapos may kakaibang feeling kapag minamassage yung mga
katawan niya. Dun na namin napansin yung polio. Pinakamahirap din kapag
nagkakasakit siya, napakasakitin kase niya. (I felt happy because he was my first
son. I was shocked because I delivered him early. He looks like a normal child,
maybe he’s just small and his head is kinda soft. I was happy when the doctor laid
him down in my chest. As he grew older, we knew that he has a polio, after a few
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weeks he got cold then there’s a weird feeling as we massage his body. That was
the time that we notice that he has a polio. It was also difficult when he gets sick
because he’s so prone to it.)
Interviewer: When you are experiencing the struggle that you mentioned, what do
you usually do?
Interviewee: Minsan hindi na kami nakakapagpacheck-up, nabili na lang ako ng
biogesic kapag alam kong simpleng lagnat lang naman. Minsan kapag sumasakit
katawan niya, hinihilot ko. (Sometimes we’re not able to see a doctor, I just buy
medicine if I know that it is just a simple cold. And if his body hurts, I just massage
it.)
Interviewer: At times of difficulties, what makes you stronger and refuse to quit?
Interviewee: Kapag nakikita mo ang anak mo na namumuhay ng normal, nakikita
kong may magandang kinabukasan para sa kanya. Nakikita na, maaari siyang
magtagumpay sa buhay, kaya mahal na mahal ko ang panganay ko. (If you see
your child living a normal life, you’ll see that he has a good future. You’ll be able to
see that he can have a successful life, that’s why I love my eldest son so much.)
Interviewer: How does looking at you child suffer feels like? Seeing him overcome
those challenges?
Interviewee: Mahirap din para sakin kapag nakikita kong nagtitiis siya. Pero mula
nung pinakita niya na kaya niyang makipagsabayan sa ibang bata, masaya na ko
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dun. (It’s also hard for me to see him enduring the pain. But the time that he proved
to me that he can join and live a normal life like others, I was happy with that.)
Interviewer: What are the different impressions that people make on your child?
Interviewee: Dati nung sa elementary, may mga nagtatawanan sa kanya. Pero
kase nakilala naman siya ng mga bata kaya napakarami niyang kaibigan. (When
he was in elementary, there were people who laugh at him. But then the children
knows him so he got a lot of friends.)
Interviewer: How does your child socialize with other children?
Interviewee: Nakikipaglaro siya palagi sa ibang bata. Pinapayagan ko naman
pero kailangang may bantay. (He always plays with other children. I always allow
him but there’s always someone to look for him.)
Interviewer: Does having premature child change some of your concepts and
ideas in life?
Interviewee: Oo, naging mas masipag ako atsaka mas umiral yung pagmamahal
ko bilang isang ina. (Yes, I am more industrious and my love as a mother shows
up more.)
Interviewer: How can mindset affect your everyday lives?
Interviewee: ‘Wag lang talagang panghihinaan ng loob, kase madali tayong
matatalo ng hirap, kawawa naman yung bata. Ako okay na kong mawala kase
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naitaguyod ko na ang pamilya ko pero yung anak ko, marami pa siyang
mararanasan eh. (Don’t be weak, because we will be easily beat by the struggles
in life the child will be pity. It was okay for me to die because I already build my
family up but my child, he will still face different challenges in life.)
Interviewer: What are the benefits and supports that you get from the
government?
Interviewee: Yung iba kong kakilala nakapag-apply sila ng maintenance na gamot
sa PCSO tsaka yung mga foundations ng mga artista. Nagtatanong nga ako kung
paano. Pero kami eh nabigyan na ng ID at booklet sa Amadeo. Nakakadiscount
kami ng kaunti sa mga gamot niya. (Other people that I know, they got a chance
to apply for the maintenance of the medicines at PCSO and other
foundations of the artists. I am asking them how. But we have an ID and booklet
at Amadeo. So we have a discount for his medicines.)
Interviewer: How does the special care needed by your child affect your financial
stability?
Interviewee: Nahihirapan ako minsan mag-budget kase kahit simpleng ubo, sipon
lang pinapacheck-up ko na siya kase mahirap na. Kapag wala kaming pera, hindi
na kami nakakapunta sa doktor. (Sometimes budgeting was hard for me because
even just simple cold we immediately go to a doctor. And if we don’t have enough
money we can’t go to a doctor.)
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Interviewer: How did you deal with these experiences?
Interviewee: Pray lang talaga. Lagi ring nandyan yung mga kamag-anak at
kaibigan ko para tumulong. (Just pray. And beside my family and friend were
always there to help.)
Interviewer: What are your insights or learning from the said experience?
Interviewee: Kahit ganto yung sitwasyon namin, hindi naman kami nilalayuan ng
mga tao, tinutulungan pa nga kami. Basta napagisip-isip ko rin na maswerte ako
dahil nabuhay ang bata. Nabigyan siya ng pagkakataong mabuhay at maging
masaya. (Even though our situation is like this people don’t go away from us
instead they help us. So I think I was so lucky because the child was alive. That
he was given a chance to live his life and be happy.)
Participant 4
Interviewee: Una mahirap kasi sobrang liit nila tapos pinanganak sila may
infection sila sa bituka pero nagamot na ‘yon noong nasa ICU sila. (At first it was
hard because they are so small. Then they were born with intestinal infection but
they were cured when they were in ICU.)
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Interviewer: Does the struggles that you’ve experienced affect you? How?
Interviewee: Two months sila sa hospital, two months din ako pabalik-balik sa ICU
para i-check at bantayan sila. (They are in the hospital for two months and I’m also
going back and forth for two months in the ICU to check and watch over them.)
Interviewer: What is your most fulfilling and difficult experience?
Interviewee: Iyon ‘yung tuwing umiiyak sila. (That was every time when they cry.)
Interviewer: When you are experiencing the struggle that you mentioned, what do
you usually do?
Interviewee: Mahirap talaga sila patigilin sa pag-iyak. Sabi nila baka dahil sa dami
ng gamot na na-inject sa kanila noong baby pa especially si Marcus, siya yung
mas mahina. Ginagawa ko, ibinibigay na lang kung ano ang gusto nila para
tumahan sa pag-iyak. (They are hard to stop crying. Some says that maybe it’s
because there are many medicines that were injected to them when they are still
a baby, especially Marcus, he’s weaker. So what I do is I’m giving them what they
want for them to stop crying.)
Interviewer: In times of difficulties, what makes you stronger ad refuse to quit?
Interviewee: Pray lang kay Lord dahil alam ko na hindi niya pababayaan mga
anak ko lalo na kapag may sakit sila, doon ako pinanghihinaan ng loob dahil hindi
naman sila normal ipinanganak nandun pa rin ‘yung kaba. (Just pray to the Lord
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because I know that he will not abandon my children especially when they are sick.
There I am discouraged because they were not normally born, the nervousness is
still there.)
Interviewer: How does looking at your child suffer feels like? Seeing him
overcome those challenges?
Interviewee: Masakit man para sa ina na makita silang ganun lalo na si Marcus.
Yung paa niya may problema pero nakikita ko naman na ‘di niya iniinda at
nakakapaglaro pa siya kahit ganoon ang sitwasyon niya. (It hurts more for a
mother seeing them on that situation especially Marcus. His feet has a problem
but I can see that he’s not complaining it and he can still play with a situation like
that.)
Interviewer: What are the different impressions that people say to your child?
Interviewee: May mga naaawa sa kanila. Yung iba naman tumatawa pa. Iba’t iba
naman sila ng impression dahil hindi pa nila nararanasan magkaroon ng premature
na anak. (Some are pity for them and some are laughing at them. They have
different expressions because they don’t have any experience having a premature
child.)
Interviewer: How do these struggles affect you socially?
Interviewee: Naapektuhan ako socially, kasi sa tuwing may mag-aaya na
makipaglaro sa anak ko kailangan pa nilang magpaalam at kailangan ko munang
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alamin ang sitwason ng anak ko. (It affected me socially because every time that
other kids invite my daughter to play with them, they need to ask my permission
and I need to know my daughter’s condition first.)
Interviewer: Does having a premature child changed some of your concepts and
ideals in life?
Interviewee: Natuto ako mas maging responsable sa buhay at may mahabang
pasensiya para sa mga anak ko. Uunahin ko muna ang mga bata bago ang sarili
o kung ano pa man. Mas kailangan sila i-prioritize. (I learned to be more
responsible in life and have a longer patience for my twins. They comes first before
myself. They need to be prioritized more.)
government?
Interviewee: Suporta simula nung baby sila tinutulungan sila makalabas ng ospital
at makabawas sa ibang gastos sa ospital. (The support coming from the
government helped us to discharge them and to lessen the hospital expenses.)
Interviewer: How does the special care needed by your child affect your financial
stability?
Interviewee: Halos hindi makaipon sa dami ng gastos sa kanila pero sa una lang
naman. Habang lumalaki naman sila gumagaan na din yung gastos. (There are
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too much expenses and no part of our budget was put into savings. But as our
twins grow, it becomes easier to fill-up their needs.)
Interviewee: Sa tulong ng mga magulang ng asawa ko at patuloy na paghingi ng
guidance at assistance sa Diyos. (With the help of my in-laws and continuously
praying to the Lord for guidance and assistance.)
Interviewer: What are your insights/learnings from the said experience?
Interviewee: Para sa akin may dahilan kung bakit nangyari ito at sa palagay ko ay
hinahanda at sinusubukan ako ng Panginoon kung gaano katatag ang
pananampalataya ko sa Kanya. (For me, there is a reason why all of these
happened to us maybe God allows this to happen because He measures our faith
in Him.)
Participant 5
Interviewer: What are your physical experiences in having a premature child?
Interviewee: I have two premature children. My daughter stayed two weeks in the
hospital to undergo medications. I don’t have enough time to sleep and rest
because I need to observe and watch my child.
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Interviewer: How these struggles affect you emotionally?
Interviewee: I felt happy and relieved because I knew that my daughter survive
despite that she’s a premature child.
Interviewer: What are the different impressions that people say to your child?
Interviewee: Luckily, people positively say my child grow smarter and brave.
Interviewer: What are your social struggles having premature child?
Interviewee: One of my social struggles is attempting to engage my child to
physical activities together with the other children.
Interviewer: How these struggles affect you mentally?
Interviewee: It made me to be a positive thinker and more understanding.
government?
Interviewee: We are able to get discount whenever we eat in a restaurant or fast-
food chain. Also, we have PhilHealth card which helps us to lessen the expenses
in the hospital.
Interviewee: I always remind myself that God and my family is always there beside
me to comfort and motivate me.
74
Tel.: (046) 414-0448  Fax: (046) 414-2198; 414-1014
Interviewer: What are your insights/learnings from the said experience?
Interviewee: Thinking about positive things because I know things are going to be
alright. I know that God is challenging me because everything happens for a
reason.
75
Tel.: (046) 414-0448  Fax: (046) 414-2198; 414-1014
APPENDIX E: Coding
Questions Partici Response Sub- Category Theme Core-
pant category Category
What are 1 I delivered Difficulty Physical Positive Experience
your my eight- in Experience
physical month breastfe
experienc twins... e-ding
e in having Breast milk
a only for him
premature that I need to
child? feed him
every 2 hours
or less and
my secretion
of milk that
time was not
adequate.
2 Pinakamasa Child Physical Positive Experience
ya na siguro delivery Experience
iyong nakaya
ko i-normal si
76
baby kahit na
nawawalan
na ako ng
tubig sa loob
ng tiyan ko...
(Maybe the
most fulfilling
part was I
delivered my
baby
normally
even I lose
water in my
tummy…)
3 Giving extra Prioritizi Physical Positive Experience
and special ng her Experience
care to my child
child…
magsasara
muna ng
tindahan,
minsan
sayang ang
77
benta,
kailangan
ding bigyan
ng extra
attention.
(Giving extra
and special
care… I need
to close the
store,
sometimes
our sales
were put to
waste, and it
also need an
extra
attention…)
4 Two months Going Physical Negative Experience
sila sa back Experience
hospital, two and forth
months din in the
ako pabalik- ICU
balik sa ICU
78
para i-check
at bantayan
sila. (They
are in the
hospital for
two months
and I’m also
going back
and forth for
two months
in the ICU to
check and
watch over
them.)
5 I have two Lack of Physical Negative Experience
premature sleep Experience
children.… I
don’t have
enough time
to sleep and
rest because
I need to
observe and
79
watch my
child.
What are 1 It makes me Deep Emotio-nal Positive Experience
your stronger and sorrow Experience
emotional refuse to quit.
experienc Despite the
e in having sad part that I
a lost
premature one of my
child? twins... for
me to move
on and get
back my
sanity.
2 Gumagaan Feeling Emotio-nal Positive Experience
ang loob ko relieved Experience
kapag
nakikita
mong
lumalaban at
bumubuti
ang lagay ng
baby ko.
80
(When I saw
my baby
fighting and
getting
better, I felt
relieved.)
3 Masaya ako Joy and Emotional Positive Experience
kase una ko difficulti Experience
siyang anak. es
Nagulat ako
kase nga
napa- aga…
Masaya nung
hiniga,
nilagay siya
nung doktor
sa dibdib
ko…
Pinakamahi-
rap din kapag
nagkakasakit
siya,
napakasakiti
81
n kase niya.
(I felt happy
because he
was my first
son. I was
shocked
because I
delivered him
early… I was
happy when
the doctor
laid him
down in my
chest… It
was also
difficult when
he gets sick
because he’s
so prone to
it.)
4 Pray lang kay Worryin Emotio-nal Negative Experience
Lord… kapag g about Experience
may sakit the
82
sila, doon health of
ako her child
pinanghihina
-an ng loob
dahil hindi
naman sila
normal
ipinanganak
nandun pa
rin ‘yung
kaba. (Just
pray to the
Lord… when
they are sick.
I am
discouraged
because they
were not
normally
born, the
nervousness
is still there.)
83
5 I felt happy Feeling Emotio-nal Positive Experience
and relieved relieved Experience
because I
knew that my
daughter
survive
despite that
she’s a
premature
child.
What are 1 The other Sympat Social Positive Experience
your one is a hy from Experience
social lovable kid people
experienc so, no
e in having negative
a impression.
premature For the
child? people who
knew the
story, they
felt sad for
the loss of
the other
84
twin. They
said, “Naku
kung
nabuhay
siguro si
Aeron, ang
pogi din nun.”
(If Aeron is
still alive, I
bet he’s a
good-looking
man too.)
2 Naranasan Seeking Social Negative Experience
kong… mag- help Experience
post at through
humingi ng social
tulong thru media
social media,
mag-chat at
mag-text sa
mga kaibigan
ko. Medyo
mahirap kase
85
hindi naman
agad
mapapansin
ng mga tao.
(I
experienced
… posting on
social media
and asking
for their help,
also chatting
and texting
my friends. It
becomes
hard
because only
few paid
attention to
the post.)
3 Nakikipagla- Looking Social Positive Experience
ro siya palagi after her Experience
sa ibang child
bata.
86
Pinapayagan
ko naman
pero
kailangang
may bantay.
(He always
plays with
other
children. I
always allow
him but
there’s
always
someone to
look for him.)
4 Naapektu- Knowing Social Negative Experience
han ako first their Experience
socially, kasi situation
sa tuwing before
may mag- allowing
aaya na them to
makipaglaro play
sa anak ko
87
kailangan pa
nilang
magpaalam
at kailangan
ko munang
alamin ang
sitwason ng
anak ko. (It
affected me
socially
because
every time
that other
kids invite my
daughter to
play with
them, they
need to ask
my
permission
and I need to
know my
daughter’s
88
condition
first.)
5 One of my Trying to Social Negative Experience
social engage Experience
struggles is her child
attempting to in
engage my physical
child to activities
physical
activities
together with
the other
children.
What are 1 My concept & Strong Mental Positive Experience
your ideals in life – faith and Experience
mental I’m a broad- mindset
experienc minded
e in having person that it
a didn’t affect
premature my faith in
child? God that
there’s a
good reason
89
for all the
trials that’s
we’re going
through.
2 Natuto akong Mindful Mental Positive Experience
maging about Struggle
matatag, health
magtiis, at
magtiyaga sa
lahat ng oras
sakripisyo at
pila sa mga
kailangang
ayusin para
sa bata.
(Be careful
especially
when you’re
pregnant.
Take care of
yourself. Be
strong and
courageous
90
all the time.
Do not
hesitate to
give up and
let go in
times of
need.)
3 ‘Wag lang Positive Mental Positive Experience
talagang mindset Struggle
panghihina-
an ng loob,
kase madali
tayong
matatalo ng
hirap,
kawawa
naman yung
bata. Ako
okay na kong
mawala kase
naitaguyod
ko na ang
pamilya ko
91
pero yung
anak ko,
marami pa
siyang
mararana-
san eh.
(Don’t be
weak,
because we
will be easily
beat by the
struggles in
life the child
will be
pity. It was
okay for me
to die
because I
already build
my family up
but my child,
he will still
face different
92
challenges in
life.)
4 Natuto ako Mentally Mental Positive Experience
mas maging responsi Struggle
responsable -ble
sa buhay at
may
mahabang
pasensiya
para sa mga
anak ko.
Uunahin ko
muna ang
mga bata
bago ang
sarili o kung
ano pa man.
Mas
kailangan
sila i-
prioritize. (I
learned to be
more
93
responsible
in life and
have a longer
patience for
my twins.
They come
first before
myself. They
need to be
prioritized
more.)
5 It made me to Positive Mental Positive Experience
be a positive mindset Struggle
thinker and
more
understand-
ding.
What are 1 I and my Financia Financial Positive Experience
your husband had l stability Struggle
financial job that time
experienc that I may
e in having say, we’re
a quite
94
premature financial
child? stable that
time.
2 Financial Govern- Financial Positive Experience
assistance ment Struggle
mula sa assis-
DSWD at tance
PCSO sa
ospital.
(Financial
assistance
from the
DSWD and
PCSO from
hospitals.)
3 Yung iba Discoun Financial Positive Experience
kong t cards Struggle
kakilala…
Pero kami eh
nabigyan na
ng ID at
booklet sa
Amadeo.
95
Nakakadis-
count kami
ng kaunti sa
mga gamot
niya.
(Other
people that I
know… But
we have an
ID and
booklet at
Amadeo. So
we have a
discount for
his
medicines.)
4 Suporta Govern- Financial Positive Experience
simula nung ment Struggle
baby sila assis-
tinutulungan tance
sila
makalabas
ng ospital at
96
makabawas
sa ibang
gastos sa
ospital. (The
support
coming from
the
government
helped us to
discharge
them and to
lessen the
hospital
expenses.)
5 We are able Discoun Financial Positive Experience
to get t cards Struggle
discount
whenever we
eat in a
restaurant or
fast-food
chain. Also,
we have
97
PhilHealth
card which
helps us to
lessen the
expenses in
the hospital.
How did 1 I just let my  Cryin  Emotio Active Coping
you deal emotions g nal strategies
with these help me in  Time Outburs
experien- coping up. I  Supp t
ces? just let it flow. ort  Family
I cried when I from
feel like. famil
Time helps y
me heal the
wound of
losing. Glad,
that I have
one son left
to take care
of and a
family that’s
been there to
98
help me
when I
needed them
most. I’m a
broad-
minded
person that it
didn’t affect
my faith in
God that
there’s a
good reason
for all the
trials that’s
we’re going
through.
2 Hinarap ko  God’  Family Active Coping
ang s  Faith strategies
problemang assit
ito kasama ance
ang aking  Supp
pamilya, ort
humingi ng from
99
tulong sa famil
Diyos, y
nagdasal at
kumilos.
(I faced this
problem
together with
my family. I
asked God’s
help and
guidance,
prayed and
moved.)
3 Pray lang  Pres  Family Active
talaga. Lagi ence  Faith
ring nandyan of
yung mga famil
kamag-anak y
at kaibigan  Stro
ko para ng
tumulong. faith
(Just pray.
And beside
100
my family
and friend
were always
there to
help.)
4 Sa tulong ng  Supp  Family Active
mga ort  Faith
magulang ng from
asawa ko at famil
patuloy na y
paghingi ng  God’
guidance at s
assistance assis
sa Diyos. tanc
(With the e
help of my in-
laws and
continuously
praying to the
Lord for
guidance and
assistance.)
101
5 I always  Pres  Family
remind ence  Faith
myself that of
God and my famil
family is y
always there  Stro
beside me to ng
comfort and faith
motivate me.
What are 1 I believe that  Thin  Being Positive Learnings/
your there’s a king optimist Insights
insights/le good reason positi  Quality
arnings why things ve time
from the happened to reas with
said us ons family
experienc unexpectedly  Lovi
e? . From this ng
experiences, famil
I should be y
positive on more
things that
didn’t come
my way. It
102
helped me to
cope up. It
also made
me to love
my family
more.
2 Maging ma-  Bein  Strong Positive Learnings/
ingat lalo na’t g mindset Insights
buntis. caref  Person
Huwag ul al
pabayaan and beliefs
ang sarili. toug
Maging h
matatag at
maging
malakas ang
loob sa lahat
ng oras.
Huwag
basta-basta
susuko at
bibitaw lalo
103
na sa
panahong
kinakaila-
ngan.
(Be careful
especially
when you’re
pregnant.
Take care of
yourself. Be
strong and
be
courageous
all the time.
Do not
hesitate to
give up and
let go in
times of
need.)
3 Kahit ganto  Than Being Positive Learnings/
‘yung kful optimist Insights
sitwasyon for
104
namin, hindi the
naman kami baby
nilalayuan ng ’s life
mga tao,  Thin
tinutulungan king
pa nga kami. positi
Basta ve
napagisip- reas
isip ko rin na ons
maswerte
ako dahil
nabuhay ang
bata.
Nabigyan
siya ng
pagkakata-
ong
mabuhay at
maging
masaya.
(Even though
our situation
is like this
105
people don’t
go away from
us instead
they help us.
So I think I
was so lucky
because the
child was
alive. That he
was given a
chance to
live his life
and be
happy.)
4 Para sa akin God’s Personal Positive Learnings/
may dahilan challeng beliefs Insights
kung bakit e
nangyari ito
at sa palagay
ko ay
hinahanda at
sinusubukan
ako ng
106
Panginoon
kung gaano
katatag ang
pananampal
ataya ko sa
Kanya. (For
me, there is a
reason why
all of these
happened to
us maybe
God allows
this to
happen
because He
measures
our faith in
Him.)
5 Thinking  Thin Being Positive Learnings/
about king optimist Insights
positive positi
things ve
because I
107
know things reas
are going to ons
be alright. I
know that
God is
challenging
me because
everything
happens for
a reason.
108
APPENDIX F: Curriculum Vitae
FRANCES JOAN E. CAMITAN

Lalaan II, Silang Cavite
Cell Phone Number: 0916-232-0314
francesjoan@gmail.com
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 16
Birthday : February 17, 2002
Gender : Female
Height : 5 ft.
Weight : 49 kg
Civil Status : Single
Nationality : Filipino
Religion : Roman Catholic
Language Spoken : Filipino, English
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Secondary : Rogationist College
Lalaan II, Silang, Cavite
2018
Primary : Lalaan Central School
(2008-2014)
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS : None
CHARACTER PREFERENCE
MRS. MARITES D. YAYONG

Teacher/Adviser
I hereby certify that the above information is true and correct to the best of
my knowledge and beliefs.
FRANCES JOAN E. CAMITAN
109
LARA ALEXANDREA B. DE LEON
071 Maitim 2nd West Tagaytay City, Cavite
jomjomcambaliza@gmail.com
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 17
Birthday : September 23, 2001
Gender : Female
Height : 5’4 ft.
Weight : 57 kg.
2018
Primary : Bethany Christian Academy of
Tagaytay
Maitim 2nd East Tagaytay City,
Cavite
(2008-2014)

Teacher/Adviser
LARA ALEXANDREA B. DE LEON
110
PATRICIA MAE A. LEONARDO
127 A. Mabini St., Brgy 3., Amadeo, Cavite
leonardopatricia126@yahoo.com
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 17
Birthday : May 09, 2001
Gender : Female
Height : 5’4 ft.
Weight : 52 kg.
Religion : Born Again Christian
2018
Primary : Amadeo Elementary School
A. Mabini St., Amadeo, Cavite
(2008-2014)
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS : Grade 9- ICT (2016-2017)

: Grade 10- KAMAGFIL
(2017-2018)

Teacher/Adviser
PATRICIA MAE A. LEONARDO
111
MARC STEPHEN C. MALARAYAP
Buho, Amadeo, Cavite
msmalarayap@gmail.com
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 16
Birthday : October 30, 2001
Gender : Male
Height : 5’3 ft.
Weight : 55 kg.
2018
Primary : Fr. Luigi Caburlotto School
Buho, Amadeo, Cavite
(2008-2014)
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS : Stem Society (2018-2019)

Teacher/Adviser
MARC STEPHEN MALARAYAP
112
ANNA MARI V. SULIT
Brgy. Toledo, Silang, Cavite
sulit.annamari@gmail.com
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 16
Birthday : May 17, 2002
Gender : Female
Height : 5 ft.
Weight : 38 kg.
2018
Primary : Alfonso Central School
Alfonso, Cavite
(2007-2010)

Teacher/Adviser
ANNA MARI V. SULIT
113

Experience of Mothers Who Gave Birth Prematurely

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Experience of Mothers Who Gave Birth Prematurely

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CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

This chapter includes the background of the study, statement of the

Background of the Study

Maternal age at pregnancy is increasing worldwide as well as preterm birth.

However, the association between prematurity and advanced maternal age

as preemies or premies. Preterm birth can be the result of multiple pathways. In

multiple pregnancy or infection, or for no apparent reason. Other women

Premature births can cause lifetime effects on infants as well as life

changing events for their families (Moore, 2002). Typically, complications of

problems. Short-term complications are breathing problems, heart problems, brain

problems, temperature control problems, gastrointestinal problems, blood

problems, hearing problems, dental problems, behavioral and psychological

preterm birth is truly a global problem. In the lower-income countries, on average,

Within countries, poorer families are at higher risk.

million births in the Philippines in 2010, a total of 348,900 were premature

highest in the world, UNICEF said.

Statement of the Problem

The purpose of this basic interpretive qualitative research study is to

develop a deeper understanding and knowledge about preterm birth experienced

1. What are your experiences in having a premature child?

2. How did you deal with these experiences?

3. What are your insights/learnings from the said experiences?

Scope and Limitations

Significance of the Study

This research aims to contribute knowledge to the following people by the

their child will be prematurely born or with complications.

things they must do and must not do.

Disability. It is an impairment that may be cognitive, developmental, intellectual,

mental, physical, and sensory or some combination of these.

Experience. It is something that a mother has actually done or lived through.

Maternal age. It is the age of the mother at the time of delivery.

Preemies. It is a baby that is born earlier than expected.

age. Many of these deaths are preventable.

baby’s estimated due date.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter renders review of other studies concerning the struggles of

In general, a normal human pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, or just more

important growth and development happen throughout pregnancy - especially in

organs did not have enough time to develop.

countless others suffer some type of lifelong physical, neurological, or educational

disability, often at great cost to families and society.

According to EKS National Institute of Child Health and Human

due to a lack of feasible, cost-effective care, such as warmth, breastfeeding

Late preterm babies, those born between 32 and 37 weeks of pregnancy,

be able to survive with access to simple and affordable care.

leading cause of newborn mortality. In 2011, 11,290 deaths were attributed to

preterm complications – the equivalent of 31 newborn deaths every day.

Experiences of Mothers who Gave Birth Prematurely

their delivery. First, physically, having a premature child is knowing to be blessed

baby was characterized by turbulent emotions, whether it occurred immediately

parents feeling scared and others excited about the event.

According to Tommy’s (2017), insomnia or sleeping too much poor appetite

or overeating, sometimes with weight loss or gain trouble concentrating and

making decisions being restless, fidgety or overwhelmingly anxious negative or

themselves in very rare cases, hallucinations or delusions, such as hearing voices.

baby (Patag, 2017).

also be extremely stressful and overwhelming. It is not unusual to feel quite

carry out even simple tasks.

birth is a traumatic experience. Having a premature baby is a huge adjustment and

happened. When a baby is born prematurely, parents often feel shocked,

Third, socially, large number of studies in preterm-born children have

very preterm-born children show significant emotional difficulties relative to peers