Meanings attributed to pregnancy by women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: a grounded theory

Abstract

Objective: To construct a substantive theory about the meanings attributed to the experience of pregnancy by women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Methods: Qualitative study using Symbolic Interactionism as a theoretical framework, and Grounded Theory, a constructivist approach, as a methodological framework. Data collection took place between January and August 2022 through in-depth interviews, which were video and audio-recorded and carried out remotely. The theoretical sample consisted of 27 participants, distributed into four sample groups. Results: From constant comparative analysis the central phenomenon was constructed: Understanding reproductive planning as the key to the gestational process in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, consisting of two categories, which show divergent experiences and meanings based on whether or not the pregnancy was planned. Conclusion: Personal interaction with the phenomenon, based or not on the “pillars” of reproductive planning, and social interaction with the multidisciplinary health team reflect on the way the woman perceives, behaves, and gives meaning to pregnancy. Thus, it is reiterated that reproductive planning is considered the key to gestational outcome in SLE.