: Mild uterine prolapse during pregnancy can complicate counseling regarding mode of birth and challenge women's confidence in pelvic floor safety. This case report describes the care of a multiparous woman with first-degree uterine prolapse and persistent urinary hesitancy following a postpartum urinary retention episode. She was followed within a midwifery continuity of care model and a coordinated multidisciplinary pathway, including obstetric, urogynecologic, and pelvic floor physiotherapy support. Although the woman initially requested an elective cesarean, iterative counseling within a trusted care relationship supported shared decision-making and attempted vaginal birth. She experienced a spontaneous vaginal birth at term with stable postpartum pelvic floor findings without persistent urinary dysfunction. A postpartum interview illustrated how continuity of midwifery care facilitated trust, reframed perceived risk, and supported confidence in future maternity. This case highlights the potential role of midwifery continuity in supporting shared decision-making when clinical risk is low but experiential vulnerability is high.
Lumia, C., Rosa, G., Zurlo, A., Serafini, M. (2026). Midwifery Continuity of Care Supports Shared Decision-Making in Pregnancy With Mild Uterine Prolapse: A Qualitative Case Report. NURSING FOR WOMEN'S HEALTH [10.1016/j.nwh.2026.05.004].
Midwifery Continuity of Care Supports Shared Decision-Making in Pregnancy With Mild Uterine Prolapse: A Qualitative Case Report
Lumia, Cristina
Primo
;Serafini, Marzia
2026
Abstract
: Mild uterine prolapse during pregnancy can complicate counseling regarding mode of birth and challenge women's confidence in pelvic floor safety. This case report describes the care of a multiparous woman with first-degree uterine prolapse and persistent urinary hesitancy following a postpartum urinary retention episode. She was followed within a midwifery continuity of care model and a coordinated multidisciplinary pathway, including obstetric, urogynecologic, and pelvic floor physiotherapy support. Although the woman initially requested an elective cesarean, iterative counseling within a trusted care relationship supported shared decision-making and attempted vaginal birth. She experienced a spontaneous vaginal birth at term with stable postpartum pelvic floor findings without persistent urinary dysfunction. A postpartum interview illustrated how continuity of midwifery care facilitated trust, reframed perceived risk, and supported confidence in future maternity. This case highlights the potential role of midwifery continuity in supporting shared decision-making when clinical risk is low but experiential vulnerability is high.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.


