Community Health Journal

Community Health Journal

Challenges of Childbearing from the Perspective of Married Couples in Isfahan: A Qualitative Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
‌‌B madahian 1
F ranjbar 2
K pejman birjandi 3
S Karimi 4
1 PhD Student in Health Services Management, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 BA Student in Health Services Management, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3 BA Student in Health Services Management, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
4 Associate Prof., Health Management and Economics Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.22123/chj.2026.498216.2151
Abstract
Introduction: Iran’s population is gradually aging, and declining fertility rates are one of the key factors driving demographic changes. Recent statistics indicate a decrease in birth rates both nationwide and in Isfahan Province. This study aimed to identify the challenges of childbearing from the perspective of married couples in Isfahan.
Methods: This qualitative study employed a content analysis approach that was conducted in 2024. The study population comprised married couples residing in Isfahan, who were selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 participants (25 couples), each lasting an average of 50 minutes. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework, using MAXQDA 2020 software.
Results: The challenges of childbearing were categorized into three main themes and twelve subthemes. Theme 1 focused on challenges related to couples, including economic, socio-cultural, physical and psychological, educational and occupational, and health-related issues. Theme 2 addressed child-related challenges, encompassing economic, socio-cultural, environmental, educational, and health-related factors. Theme 3 concerned governance-related challenges, such as public distrust toward government programs and the ineffectiveness of government incentives for childbearing.
Conclusion: The study revealed that childbearing challenges from the perspective of couples encompass individual, child-centered, and governance-related issues. These findings can inform policymakers and authorities in designing effective economic, social, and health-related programs and incentives. Furthermore, transparent communication and implementation of practical incentives may enhance public trust and encourage couples to pursue childbearing.
Keywords
Challenge
Childbearing
Married couples
Qualitative study
Content analysis
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Community Health Journal
Volume 19, Issue 4
Spring 2025
Pages 14-26