Reproductive health problems among female shift workers: A qualitative study in Iran

Background: Shift work (i.e. working between 18:00 and 07:00) is associated with sleeplessness and fatigue and hence, can cause female shift workers different health problems. This study aimed to explore reproductive health problems among female shift workers. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Amol and Babol cities, Iran, on 19 female shift workers with previous history of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Participants were selected purposively and with maximum variation respecting their age, work experience, educational level, and financial and employment status. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were held for data collection and conventional qualitative content analysis was employed for data analysis. Results: Female shift workers' reproductive health problems were categorized into fourteen subcategories and the five main categories of conflict between pregnancy and shift work, breastfeeding-related challenges, impaired sexual relationships, childbearing limitations, and gynecological problems. Conclusion: Impaired sexual problems are the most significant reproductive health problem among female shift workers. Their reproductive health can be promoted through periodical reproductive health assessments by midwives, reproductive health specialists, psychologists, and gynecologists. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.