Maternity groups in the postpartum period at well child clinics – mothers’ experiences

Abstract

Well child clinics should offer all mothers the opportunity to participate in groups to strengthen their social relations and their confidence in parenting. PHNs play an important role in facilitating groups for first-time parents. Group leadership can influence how mothers in a group connect and whether the parental role is affected.

Multi-Children Parents’ Experiences of Parental Support by Attending Parental Group for Multi-Children Parents in Sweden

“…In another study, some partners expressed a need for mothers to meet on their own to discuss specific topics, which would be perceived as sensitive if the fathers participated in the discussions. 35 Mothers who had participated in a parental group for only mothers mentioned that there ought to be a similar offer for fathers, 36 and fathers who had participated in a parental group for only fathers found them educational and resulted in their increased involvement. Fathers had their own way of speaking within the group, and discussions continued at home with the mothers.…”

“…8 Mothers have described a feeling of security to have a social contact that lasts for several years and that is always there. 36 In this study, mainly mothers testified about long-lasting friendships made through participation in parental group for MCPs. This study revealed that MCFs had a wish for a new opportunity to reconnect with other MCFs, possibly through a continuing parental group for MCPs targeted for MCFs, after about half a year after the baby's birth because that is when most fathers start their parental leave.…”

“…A study revealed that first-time mothers thought it was particularly useful with information from MCM and therefore preferable to mix first-time mothers with MCM in parental groups for mothers. 36 A literature review concluded that it is not realistic that one standardized program in parental education would be satisfying and meeting all different parents’ needs. 50 In another study, nurses thought that they should work more with groups where parents have special needs in common.…”

“…They emphasized the importance of support by enabling discussions of their own insecurity with other parents, getting confirmation, and creating contacts. 32,36 Meeting other parents and socializing, venting, and discussing with each other is more important than the information received by parent education. 39,40 We suggest that support from other MCPs can empower MCPs.…”

“…34 Parents participating in prenatal groups could experience support in preparation for giving birth but not for parenthood, 35 and mothers participating in maternity groups expressed that they wanted fellowship and found it important to share experiences with other mothers. 36 Parental groups seem to be popular and have great potential to establish one’s social network. 37 Participation in a parental group was found to be meaningful, enhanced the feeling of safety and security in the parental role, and created a support network.…”