Analysis of couples' awareness about husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction during the early phase of pregnancy

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to clarify similarities and differences of couples' awareness about husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction during the early phase of pregnancy, and discuss the effect of nursing activities that enhance husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction.
Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted on eight couples during the early phase of pregnancy. All interviews were transcribed, and a qualitative inductive analysis was performed using the methods of Berelson. Ratios of agreement obtained by the Scott's equation in categories were 88.0% for similarities of couples' awareness, 87.0% for differences of couples' awareness on wives side and 89.0% for differences of couples' awareness on husbands side. These results confirmed the reliability.
Results
The following three categories were identified about husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction during the early phase of pregnancy: 'Empathy for wives' feelings and health', 'Support with housework', and 'Preparation for parenthood'. Similarities and differences of couples' awareness about husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction were clarified.
Conclusion
The three categories were identified from the view point of similarities and differences of couples' awareness about husbands' support for their wives' satisfaction during the early phase of pregnancy. From the discussion about the similarities and differences of couples' awareness, it has been suggested that nursing activities to improve husbands' support for their wives satisfaction during the early phase of pregnancy should focus on enough communication and sharing mind within a couple.