The “Road to Death and After”: Understanding the Dynamics of Maternal Near Miss from Survivors in Rural Ghana

Each year, many women in sub-Saharan Africa die due mostly to preventable maternity causes. Learning from women’s experiences may help shape efforts aimed at protecting maternal health. The study investigated circumstances surrounding maternal near miss among 17 survivors in rural Ghana. It utilized a qualitative design using a semi-structured interview guide to collect data. Data were further gleaned from participants’ admission records and analyzed by means of Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Results reveal that participants engaged in normative practices that promoted risky maternal behaviors such as the use of unprescribed medications, misinterpretation of danger signs and attempted home delivery. They received delayed but efficient care at the health facility leading to their survival but suffered mental health conditions as a result of maternal complications. complications. Issues surrounding the occurrence of maternal near miss in rural Ghana are partly rooted in social conservatism. Interventions targeting improved maternal health outcomes may need to adopt a multifaceted approach such as education for women and the wider community about maternal health care, pregnancy related risks, post-pregnancy care, as well as training of health care professionals about the importance of winning the trust of women in the community.