Lived Experiences of Parents of Children Undergoing Hypospadias Repair at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the lived experiences of parents whose children underwent hypospadias repair at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan, with a focus on emotional responses, hospital experience, postoperative challenges, and follow-up support.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, between 15, Nov 2025 and 15, Dec 2025. Parents of children who underwent hypospadias repair were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were conducted in a mix of Urdu and Pashto, based on participant preference, and summarized in English. Written notes were transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis approach. Departmental permission was obtained, and verbal informed consent was taken from all participants prior to data collection.
Results: A total of 40 parents participated in the study. The analysis revealed six major themes: understanding and acceptance of diagnosis, emotional and psychological impact on parents, hospital experience and communication with healthcare staff, practical challenges during postoperative recovery, adequacy of follow-up and support, and the influence of family and social responses. Parents reported significant anxiety at diagnosis and during the surgical period, difficulties in managing postoperative care at home, and variability in the level of follow-up guidance provided. Supportive communication from healthcare staff and family members played a key role in coping.
Conclusion: Parents of children undergoing hypospadias repair experience considerable emotional and practical challenges throughout the treatment process. Clear communication, structured postoperative guidance, and early follow-up support may improve parental confidence and reduce distress. Incorporating family-centered approaches into pediatric urology care may enhance overall treatment experiences in similar healthcare settings.