Experience and perceived impact of anxiety and depression on quality of life following emergency caesarean section among women in Ghana: a qualitative study

Objective This study explored the experiences of women who have undergone emergency caesarean section (EmCS) and how they perceived anxiety and depression to impact their quality of life.

Design A qualitative study grounded in the biopsychosocial model was conducted among Ghanaian women diagnosed with anxiety and depression following EmCS. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data on the psychosocial impact of EmCS on women’s lives. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes from the interviews, using Nvivo V.14 Software.

Setting A hospital in Effutu Municipality, Central Region of Ghana. Data were collected from August 2022 to September 2023.

Participants The study included 25 Ghanaian women who had undergone an EmCS, had clinically diagnosed and treated anxiety and/or depression and had recovered within the last 6 months. Women with pre-existing mental health conditions were excluded.

Results The major themes identified from the thematic analysis of results included emotional distress, daily life challenges and disrupted social relationships.

Conclusions There is an urgent need for targeted mental health interventions and culturally sensitive postpartum support to address the psychological needs of women following EmCS in Ghana.