Molding influences of prematurity: Interviews with adults born preterm. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: D'Agata, Amy L.; Kelly, Michelle; Green, Carol E.; Sullivan, Mary C.
• Is Part Of: Early human development. Volume 166(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: Adults born preterm -- Preterm survivors -- Thematic analysis -- Qualitative research -- Interviews -- Longitudinal birth cohort; Fetus -- Periodicals; Neonatology -- Periodicals; Prenatal influences -- Periodicals; 612.65
• DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2022.105542
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0378-3782

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Tremendous medical advancements over the last several decades have supported the survival of younger and sicker newborns. Substantial quantitative research exists about health and developmental outcomes following preterm birth, however, limited published literature has explored what this experience means to the survivors. Aim: The purpose was to describe, interpret and understand how adults born preterm perceive prematurity to have affected their lives. Study design: Qualitative thematic analysis. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 adults born preterm from the RHODĒ Study, a longitudinal preterm birth cohort. A cross-section of participants with high and low early life medical and environmental risk was interviewed. Data were analyzed using a constructionist method of latent theme analysis. Results: From the data, 3 themes were identified: 1) My parents call me their miracle, 2) It's not a big deal, I'm the same as everyone else, 3) I've overcome a lot. Themes represent a continuum of experience, from positive to neutral to negative. Common life experiences of family, education, friends, and health are subthemes that help to illuminate how participants assign meaning to their prematurity. Meaning was linked to how typical or not participants perceive their health, learning and friends compared to peers. Conclusion: Perceptions about prematurity and adversity are influenced by the ways parents and families represent prematurity in shared stories and actions. These findings should inform future research with adult survivors of prematurity. Participants identified ongoing need for support and advocacy, particularly from healthcare and education communities. Highlights: Thematic analysis of first-person interviews with adults born preterm Perception of preterm birth's influence varies along a continuum from positive to negative. Family stories and behaviors influence perceptions of adults born preterm. Family, education, social development, and health are important sub-themes. Preterm survivors report needs for ongoing support and advocacy from health and education systems.