Support Needs of Expectant Mothers and Fathers: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe expectant mothers' and fathers' perceived needs of support during pregnancy. Twenty-two women and 10 men were interviewed in four focus groups and 13 individual interviews. Systematic text condensation was performed to analyze the data. Parents described not only a broad spectrum of social support needs but also needs of psychological and physical support. They also requested to share their experiences with others. The foci of care and parents' needs of support are more harmonized with medical support than with psychological and emotional support. Mothers' needs were predominately addressed in the health services, but fathers often felt "invisible." Antenatal services may need to offer more customized individual support and emphasize peer support in groups; the challenge is to involve both parents through communication and encouragement so they can support each other.

Barriers and Facilitators Related to Rehabilitation Stays in Multiple Sclerosis

“…27,28 First all authors formed an overall impression by reading the transcripts, finding characteristics while paying attention…”

Content and Presentation of Content in Parental Education Groups in Sweden

“…It might be necessary to educate midwives and CHC nurses in gender issues so PE groups will be designed to attract equal participation by women and men. Other researchers have come to similar conclusions (Premberg, Hellström, & Berg, 2008;Widarsson, Kerstis, Sundquist, Engström, & Sakardi, 2012). Another problem is that although nearly equal numbers of expectant mothers and fathers participate in AC groups, fewer fathers than mothers participate in CHC groups (i.e., groups that start meeting after childbirth).…”

Improving Prenatal Health Communication: Engaging Men via E-Health

“…Additional perceived barriers for men being involved in prenatal health include having to work (no time) and the expense of classes or programs (Mackert et al, 2014;Widarsson et al, 2012).…”

“…However, to date, such interventions have almost entirely left men outside of a defined role in prenatal care and pregnancy outcomes (Widarsson, Kerstis, Sundquist, Engström, & Sarkadi, 2012).…”

“…Despite the breadth of research that shows that including men in these initiatives can improve outcomes (Alcalay et al, 1993;Shefner-Rogers & Sood, 2004), pregnancy continues to be a domain where men feel "invisible" or "unwelcome"-prompting calls for programs that educate men on pregnancy health (Mackert et al, 2017;Widarsson et al, 2012).…”