Exploration into causes of unwanted pregnancy: A qualitative study

Background: Pregnancy is a memorable event; but when unwanted, it causes harmful effects on families health specially mothers and their growing babies. Aim: This study aims to understand the causes of unwanted pregnancies. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in the cities of Ahwaz and Behbahan. Using a purposeful sampling, data were collected from 27 women with direct or indirect experiences of unintended pregnancy. Participants were purposefully selected and sampling was continued until data saturation. Data were gathered through unstructured in-depth interviews. Analysis was done using thematic analysis method. For this purpose, interviews were recorded, transcribed word by word and analyzed concurrently using constant comparison analysis. Reliability and transferability were approved to ensure the rigor of the study. Results: Three main themes were emerged from the data analyses, including: not being happy in their marriage, lack of readiness and perceived inability of having a baby, and the number and characteristics of previous children. Conclusion: The findings provide evidence for women`s experiences of the causes of unintended pregnancy, allowing researchers and policy makers to implement context-based interventions and approaches for vulnerable groups to promote their health. Therefore, qualitative research into men's experiences of the unintended pregnancy of their wives is suggested.