References
Supporting the transition to parenthood: Development of a group health-promoting programme
Abstract
Background
Many Western countries have a strong record of obstetric safety; however, there are disparities in other indicators (such as morbidity) and best-practice outcomes, including breastfeeding rates and perinatal depression.
Aims
To pilot a multifaceted psycho-educational group programme for first-time parents.
Methods
This alternate-allocation study compared an intervention programme (
Findings
There were distinct differences between groups at follow-up, with the intervention group reporting lower depression scores and exclusive breastfeeding. Trends included positive adjustment to parenthood, perceived parenting competence and increased mother-infant attachment.
Conclusion
The intervention demonstrated benefits including learning opportunities, skills training and increased social capital.
High-quality perinatal care is of central importance to public health and the broader agenda for global health (ten Hoope-Bender et al, 2014). In antenatal care, the focal point has shifted from maternal physical health and fetal wellbeing to an increased awareness of psychosocial factors (Hildingsson et al, 2014). In Western nations such as the UK, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Ireland and Australia, various models of maternity care, including midwife-led, medical-led and shared care (Hatem et al, 2008) have been developed. In Victoria, Australia, women mostly receive maternity care through the public health system (Forster et al, 2016). Public maternity models such as shared-care (where a woman sees her GP for most appointments, and hospital doctors for key check-ups during pregnancy) or midwife-led care attempt to provide continuity of care and information provision, increased involvement of women in decision-making and normalisation of the birth process. Despite efforts to provide more holistic models of care, research still identifies shortcomings in service delivery, such as a lack of timely information and emotional support (Hildingsson et al, 2013).
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