Midwives’ Psychosocial Workplace Experiences and Empowerment Strategies: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Background: Midwives in Iran face significant psychosocial challenges affecting their well-being and professional performance. While global studies have explored healthcare workers' psychosocial aspects, research specifically examining Iranian midwives' experiences remains limited.Method: This qualitative study employed conventional content analysis following Hsieh and Shannon's (2005) approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 midwives working in maternity wards, postpartum units, and gynecological departments in Northeast Iran from April to June 2024. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, ensuring diverse representation across employment statuses and experience levels .Results: Analysis revealed three main categories under the theme "Midwives' Psychosocial Workplace Experiences and Empowerment Strategies": 1) Emotional Labor in Midwifery, encompassing Heart Echoes, Mind Waves, Unseen Burdens, and Workplace Violence; 2) Navigating External Pressures, including Winds of Change, Tides of Conflict, and Job Insecurity Shadows; and 3) Empowerment and Coping Mechanisms, featuring Professional Development, Shield of Unity, Torch of Advocacy, Autonomy and Innovation, Psychological Defense Mechanisms, and External Sources of coping.Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for systemic changes in Iranian midwives' work conditions, emphasizing empowerment through education, peer support, and innovation as crucial mitigation strategies.

Midwives’ Psychosocial Workplace Experiences and Empowerment Strategies: A Qualitative Content Analysis Keywords:

Midwives , psychosocial factors , empowerment , qualitative study , workplace stress , emotional labor , Iran , healthcare