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Nechaeva E, Kharkova O, Postoev V, Grjibovski AM, Darj E, Odland JØ. Awareness of postpartum depression among midwives and pregnant women in Arkhangelsk, Arctic Russia. Glob Health Action 2024; 17:2354008. [PMID: 38828500 PMCID: PMC11149570 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2024.2354008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum depression (PPD) affects approximately 17% of the women worldwide with nearly half of all cases going undetected. More research on maternal mental health, particularly among healthcare professionals and pregnant mothers, could help identify PPD risks and reduce its prevalence. OBJECTIVE Given that awareness of PPD is a crucial preventive factor, we studied PPD awareness among midwives and pregnant women in Arkhangelsk, Arctic Russia. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Midwives and pregnant women were recruited from the women's clinic of the Arkhangelsk municipal polyclinic. Seven midwives and 12 pregnant mothers were interviewed. RESULTS Midwives described limited time for psychological counselling of pregnant women; they reported that their primary focus was on the physiological well-being of women. Pregnant women have expressed a desire for their families to share responsibilities. The participants considered PPD as a mix of psychological and physiological symptoms, and they also highlighted a discrepancy between the expectations of pregnant women and the reality of motherhood. The present study underscored the limited understanding of PPD identification. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that there is a need for increased awareness among midwives and pregnant women regarding PPD. Prevention programs targeting PPD with a specific emphasis on enhancing maternal mental health knowledge are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Nechaeva
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Olga Kharkova
- Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Northern State Medical University, Arkhangelsk, Russia
| | - Vitaly Postoev
- Department of Public Health, Health Care and Social Work, Northern State Medical University, Arkhangelsk, Russia
| | - Andrej M. Grjibovski
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Department of Epidemiology and Modern Vaccination Technologies, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
- Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Northern State Medical University, Arkhangelsk, Russia
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Northern (Arctic) Federal University, Arkhangelsk, Russia
| | - Elisabeth Darj
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jon Øyvind Odland
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of General Hygiene, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
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Kemp E, Sillence E, Thomas L. Information work and digital support during the perinatal period: Perspectives of mothers and healthcare professionals. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2024; 3:e0000387. [PMID: 39150902 PMCID: PMC11329105 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
During pregnancy and early motherhood, the perinatal period, women use a variety of resources including digital resources to support social interactions, information seeking and health monitoring. While previous studies have investigated specific timepoints, this study takes a more holistic approach to understand how information needs and resources change over the perinatal period. Furthermore, we include the perspective of maternity healthcare professionals to better understand the relationship between different stakeholders in the information work of perinatal women. A total of 25 interviews with 10 UK based mothers and 5 healthcare professionals (3 Midwives and 2 Health visitors) were conducted. Perinatal women were asked about their information and support needs throughout pregnancy and the postnatal period, healthcare professionals were asked about information and support provision to perinatal women. Information work activities were grouped along stages of the perinatal timeline from pre-pregnancy to the postanal period to illustrate the work and perspectives of the women and the healthcare professionals. Information work varies considerably over the timeline of the perinatal period, shifting back and forth in focus between mother and baby. information work during this period consists of many information related activities including seeking, monitoring, recording, questioning, sharing and checking. The importance of the HCPs as stakeholders in this work is notable as is the digital support for information work. Importantly, paper-based resources are still an important shared resource allowing reflection and supporting communication. Information work for women varies across the perinatal timeline. Particular challenges exist at key transition points, and we suggest design considerations for more integrated digital resources that support information work focused on mother and baby to enhance communication between perinatal women and healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kemp
- School of Psychology, Sheffield University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Sillence
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Thomas
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Albalawi FD, Faheem WA, Thabet H, Daghash H. Exploring the Relationship Between Childbirth Expectations and Fear Among Primigravida Women in Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e49337. [PMID: 38143635 PMCID: PMC10748853 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Childbirth is a significant life event that is accompanied by fear, particularly among primigravida mothers. However, little is known about the expectations and fears of childbirth of primigravida women in Saudi Arabia. Aim This study aimed to explore expectations and fears of childbirth among primigravidas. Methods An exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 369 primigravidas was conducted at antenatal outpatient clinics at the Maternity and Children's Hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Results In the current study, most participants were aged 25-34 years 204 (55.3%), married 355 (96.2%), and had secondary or higher education 279 (75.6%). A majority of participants 265 (71.8%) reported financial difficulties and 244 unplanned pregnancies (66.1%), while most were pregnant beyond 30 weeks 254 (66.4%). The results showed that the mean total score on the Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire (W-DEQ) fear of childbirth scale was 57.56, indicating moderate levels of fear on average among primigravida women, with the highest subscale score for the moment of birth. The mean total score on the Childbirth Expectations Questionnaire (CEQ) childbirth expectations scale was 108.15, also indicating moderate expectations on average, with other significant expectations having the highest subscale score. A significant negative correlation was found between the fear and expectations scales (r=-0.775, p<0.001). Sociodemographic factors such as older age, higher education, income, employment, and planned pregnancy were associated with higher expectations and lower fear, whereas younger age, lower education, income, employment, unplanned pregnancy, and medical issues were associated with higher fear. Conclusions The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the expectations and fears of childbirth of primigravida women in Saudi Arabia. The results could inform healthcare providers and policymakers about the predictors of fear and effective interventions to reduce fear and improve birth experience in primiparous women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah D Albalawi
- Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
- Training and Academic Affairs, Ministry of Health, Tabuk, SAU
| | - Wafaa A Faheem
- Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Hala Thabet
- Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
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Khademi K, Kaveh MH, Ghahremani L, Nazari M, Karimi M. The impact of family social support on postpartum quality of life among Iranian women: structural equation modelling. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605221147198. [PMID: 36823987 PMCID: PMC9969449 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221147198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of family social support (FSS) on postpartum quality of life (PQOL). METHODS This analytical cross-sectional study enrolled postpartum women and asked them to complete the PQOL and FSS questionnaire (FSSQ) between October 2021 and February 2022 in three urban health centres in Shiraz, Iran. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis and multiple regression were used to determine the relationship between the FSS and PQOL variables. Structural equation modelling was used to determine the relationship pathways of the impact of FSS on PQOL. RESULTS A total of 240 women were enrolled in the study. The mean ± SD scores of PQOL and FSSQ were 61.63 ± 9.59 and 69.80 ± 11.19, respectively. Family support seeking (7.95) and emotional support seeking (-6.80) were two factors affecting PQOL. CONCLUSION Women should be empowered to seek support through education and actions from health workers, especially nurses and midwives, during routine regular prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Khademi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Promotion,
School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Kaveh
- Research Centre for Health Sciences, Department of Health
Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz,
Iran,Mohammad Hossein Kaveh, Research Centre for
Health Sciences, Department of Health Promotion, Institute of Health, School of
Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 1 Razi Boulevard, Shiraz, Fars
Province 71536-75541, Iran.
| | - Leila Ghahremani
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz
University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahin Nazari
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz
University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoud Karimi
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz
University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Ran M, Songwathana P, Damkliang J. Discharge readiness and its associated factors among first-time mothers undergoing cesarean section in China. BELITUNG NURSING JOURNAL 2022; 8:497-504. [PMID: 37554237 PMCID: PMC10405666 DOI: 10.33546/bnj.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helping first-time mothers who have just undergone cesarean section and transitioning from hospital to home with their infant is a complex process. Therefore, understanding what contributes to discharge readiness is necessary. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine discharge readiness level and its associated factors among first-time mothers who have undergone cesarean section. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 233 first-time mothers who had undergone cesarean sections selected using quota sampling from the two largest referral centers in China. Data were collected from March to June 2021 using a demographic characteristics form, Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale-New Mother Form (RHDS-NMF), and Quality Discharge Teaching Scale-New Mother Form (QDTS-NMF). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. RESULTS The discharge readiness of the respondents was at a moderate level. Age (r = -0.129, p = 0.049) and complications after cesarean section (r = -0.136, p = 0.038) had a negative correlation with discharge readiness. In contrast, the subscales of QDTS-NMF, particularly the content (r = 0.519, p = 0.000) and delivery (r = 0.643, p = 0.000), had a positive correlation with discharge readiness. CONCLUSION The findings enable nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals to understand discharge readiness and its related factors among first-time mothers undergoing cesarean section. It is also suggested that the quality of discharge teaching with a comprehensive assessment of first-time mothers preparing for discharge from the hospital and following the guideline to prevent post-cesarean section complications should be reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfei Ran
- Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
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Loezar-Hernández M, Briones-Vozmediano E, Gea-Sánchez M, Otero-García L. Percepción de la atención sanitaria en la primera experiencia de maternidad y paternidad. GACETA SANITARIA 2022; 36:425-432. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Sebayang SK, Has EMM, Hadisuyatmana S, Efendi F, Astutik E, Kuswanto H. Utilization of Postnatal Care Service in Indonesia and its Association with Women's Empowerment: An Analysis of 2017 Indonesian Demographic Health Survey Data. Matern Child Health J 2022; 26:545-555. [PMID: 35013886 PMCID: PMC8747864 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-021-03324-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective The coverage of postnatal care (PNC) is among the lowest globally when compared with other maternal and child interventions. This study aims to assess PNC utilisation in Indonesia and its association with women’s empowerment indicators to provide evidence for the need for policy change. Methods Data from the 2017 Indonesian Demographic Health Surveys was analyzed for any use of PNC, early first PNC (within 2 days of birth) and PNC after discharge for newborns. Women’s empowerment factors were calculated using a principal component analysis of 17 indicators. The association between women’s empowerment factors and PNC was assessed using logistic regression adjusted for covariates and complex survey design. Results The prevalence of any PNC by skilled professionals in Indonesia was high but PNC after discharge was very low. Labor-force participation and women’s knowledge level were associated with any PNC, but the association between women’s knowledge level and any PNC was modified by place of birth. Disagreement towards justification of wife beating and women’s knowledge level were associated with early PNC but the association was modified by place of birth. Decision-making power was also associated with early PNC but modified by infant’s gender. Disagreement towards justification of wife beating was negatively associated with PNC after discharge, but the association between decision-making power and PNC after discharge was modified by the infant’s size at birth. Conclusions for Practice PNC coverage after discharge in Indonesia needs improvement. Women’s empowerment indicators need to be addressed in improving PNC coverage. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10995-021-03324-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susy K Sebayang
- Research Group for Health and Well-Being of Women and Children, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia. .,Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Population Studies and Health Promotion, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Banyuwangi Campus, Jl. Wijaya Kusuma No. 113, Banyuwangi, East Java, 68425, Indonesia.
| | - Eka M M Has
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | | | - Ferry Efendi
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.,Research Group of Community Health, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Erni Astutik
- Research Group for Health and Well-Being of Women and Children, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.,Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Population Studies and Health Promotion, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Heri Kuswanto
- Department of Statistics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Kampus ITS Sukolilo, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Schobinger E, Vanetti M, Ramelet AS, Horsch A. Social support needs of first-time parents in the early-postpartum period: A qualitative study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1043990. [PMID: 36590631 PMCID: PMC9794858 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1043990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The early postpartum period is a critical time for first-time parents as they adapt to their new role. Perceived lack of social support is a risk factor for developing mental health problems. Insufficient or inappropriate professional support for both parents has been reported by many studies. Social support that appropriately meets parents' needs is an important protective factor for parents' wellbeing; however, little is known about the social support needs of both first-time parents. Aims and objectives To describe both first-time parents' formal social support needs in the early postpartum period. Method Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with first-time parents recruited on the postpartum ward of a Swiss university hospital. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and sub-themes. Results Fifteen mothers and eleven fathers were interviewed. Twelve themes were identified. Mothers' themes were "experiencing postpartum changes," "creation of a family unit," "self-esteem," "emotional needs," "difficulty in communicating their needs," and "the postpartum stay." Fathers' themes were "to be included in care procedures on the postpartum ward," "to be reassured," "to anticipate their postpartum stay" and "to consider their need as non-priority." Parental shared needs were: "to care for their newborn," and "returning home." Conclusion Mothers' and fathers' needs differed. Mothers needed more emotional support than fathers and fathers considered themselves as the main support for their partner. Fathers wanted to be integrated in the care of their newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Schobinger
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Vanetti
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Sylvie Ramelet
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department Woman-Mother-Child, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antje Horsch
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department Woman-Mother-Child, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Hay SJ, McLachlan HL, Newton M, Forster DA, Shafiei T. Sources of information during pregnancy and the early parenting period: Exploring the views of women and their partners. Midwifery 2021; 105:103236. [PMID: 34968821 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are a wide variety of information sources available during pregnancy and the early parenting period, but limited understanding of their usefulness, particularly for partners. We explored the views of both women and their partners regarding sources of information, their frequency of use, and their preferred formats. DESIGN AND SETTING Data were collected as part of a large cluster randomised controlled trial at a tertiary maternity hospital in 2015-2016, in Melbourne, Australia. The overall evaluation was of a parenting kit ('Growing Together'), an evidence-based information source for prospective and new parents covering the period from conception until one year postpartum. This paper uses data collected from women when their baby was two months of age, and women's partners when the baby was six months of age, via postal or online survey. PARTICIPANTS Women were eligible if they booked for pregnancy care at The Royal Women's Hospital during the recruitment period, were having their first baby, able to read and speak English without an interpreter, and <30 weeks pregnant at their first hospital appointment (n = 1034). All eligible women were included unless they opted out. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS In total 92 women were excluded. Of the women sent the two-month survey, 42% (392/941) responded. Partner surveys were returned by 252/791 partners (32%). Respondents received information from a range of sources, most frequently face to face from health professionals through childbirth education or midwife discussion/education, followed by friends and family members. Information received from a health professional was also reported as being the most useful. For both women and their partners, the most important factor related to information was that it was from a trusted and reliable source. KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Women and their partners highlighted the importance of quality and access to evidence based resources and information. The internet is frequently favoured by women and their partners due to its convenience, accessibility, and timely access to information. Overall, women and their partners reported information directly from a health care professional to be the most useful and health services should ensure that women and their partners have adequate access to their health care professional.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Hay
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia.
| | - H L McLachlan
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - M Newton
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - D A Forster
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia; The Royal Women's Hospital, Locked Bag 300, Grattan Street & Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - T Shafiei
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, George Singer Building, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
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Anderson E, Brigden A, Davies A, Shepherd E, Ingram J. Pregnant women's experiences of social distancing behavioural guidelines during the Covid-19 pandemic 'lockdown' in the UK, a qualitative interview study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1202. [PMID: 34162358 PMCID: PMC8221098 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11202-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Covid-19 triggered the rapid roll-out of mass social distancing behavioural measures for infection control. Pregnant women were categorised as 'at risk' requiring extra vigilance with behavioural guidelines. Their understanding and ability to adhere to recommendations was unknown. OBJECTIVES To complete a behavioural analysis of the determinants of recommended social distancing behaviour in pregnant women, according to the 'capability, opportunity, motivation and behaviour' ('COM-B') model to inform the development of recommendations/materials to support pregnant women in understanding and adhering to behavioural guidelines. DESIGN Qualitative interview study with pregnant women in the Bristol area (UK). METHODS Semi-structured telephone/videoconference interviews were conducted following a topic guide informed by the COM-B model, transcribed verbatim and subjected to framework analysis. Infographic materials were iteratively produced with stakeholder consultation, to support pregnant women. RESULTS Thirty-one women participated (selected for demographic range). Women reported adhering to social distancing recommendations and intended to continue. COM-B analysis identified gaps in understanding around risk, vulnerability, and the extent of required social distancing, as well as facilitators of social distancing behaviour (e.g. social support, motivation to stay safe, home environment/resources). Additional themes around detrimental mental health effects and changes to maternity healthcare from the social distancing measures were identified. Infographic resources (plus midwife report) addressing women's key concerns were produced and disseminated. CONCLUSIONS The COM-B model provided useful details of determinants of pregnant women's adherence to social distancing behaviours. The confusion of what being 'at risk' meant and varying interpretation of what was expected indicates a need for greater clarity around categories and guidance. The loss of maternity care and negative mental health effects of social distancing suggest a growing area of unmet health needs to be addressed in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Anderson
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK.
| | - Amberly Brigden
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
| | - Anna Davies
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
| | - Emily Shepherd
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
| | - Jenny Ingram
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
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McLeish J, Harvey M, Redshaw M, Alderdice F. A qualitative study of first time mothers' experiences of postnatal social support from health professionals in England. Women Birth 2020; 34:e451-e460. [PMID: 33153952 PMCID: PMC8396053 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Many women experience the transition to motherhood as stressful and find it challenging to cope, contributing to poor emotional wellbeing. BACKGROUND Postnatal social support from health professionals can support new mothers in coping with this transition, but their social support role during the postnatal period is poorly defined. AIM To explore how first time mothers in England experienced social support from health professionals involved in their postnatal care. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study, theoretically informed by phenomenological social psychology, based on semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 32 mothers from diverse backgrounds. These were analysed using inductive thematic analysis, with themes subsequently mapped on to the four dimensional model of social support (emotional, appraisal, informational, practical). FINDINGS There were nine themes connected to social support, with the strongest mapping to appraisal and informational support: for appraisal support, 'Praise and validation', 'Criticism and undermining', and 'Made to feel powerless'; for informational support, 'Is this normal?', 'Need for proactive information', and 'Confusion about postnatal care'; for emotional support, 'Treated as an individual and heard' and 'Impersonal care and being ignored'; for practical support, 'Enabling partners to provide practical support'. CONCLUSIONS Health professionals can play an important role postnatally in helping first time mothers to cope, develop confidence and to thrive, by taking every opportunity to give appropriate and personalised appraisal, informational and emotional social support alongside clinical care. Training and professional leadership may help to ensure that all health professionals are able and expected to offer the positive social support already offered by some.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny McLeish
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK.
| | - Merryl Harvey
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, City South Campus, Birmingham City University, Westbourne Road, Birmingham B15 3TN, UK
| | - Maggie Redshaw
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Fiona Alderdice
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
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