Sub-optimal use of ultrasound examinations may result in underperformance of Vietnamese maternity care - A qualitative study of midwives' experiences and views

Objective: To explore Vietnamese midwives' experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, including ethical aspects.

Methods: Using a qualitative design, content analysis of focus group discussions with midwives (N = 25) working at Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology at three hospitals in urban, semi-urban and rural parts of Hanoi were performed.

Results: Obstetric ultrasound was reported as being a highly valuable tool, although replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication was perceived as troubling. Participants generally viewed the fetus as a human being already at an early stage of pregnancy. However, when complications occurred, the pregnant woman's health was mostly prioritised.

Conclusion: Although the use of ultrasound has many benefits during pregnancy, replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication is concerning and needs to be addressed. There is also a need to communicate the benefits of adequate antenatal care to pregnant women and caution about the non-beneficial use of repeated ultrasound examinations without medical indication. Additionally, non-medical ultrasounds consume limited healthcare resources and its use needs to be better regulated in Vietnam.