Transition to Parenthood: The Needs of Parents in Pregnancy and Early Parenthood
Author Information
Author(s): Deave Toity, Johnson Debbie, Ingram Jenny
Primary Institution: Centre for Child & Adolescent Health, University of the West of England Bristol
Hypothesis
How can first-time mothers and their partners be better supported during the antenatal period?
Conclusion
The study indicates a need for improved preparation for parenthood and greater inclusion of fathers in antenatal education.
Supporting Evidence
- Parents expressed a desire for more information on parenting and baby care before becoming parents.
- Many fathers felt excluded from antenatal education and wanted more involvement.
- Women reported feeling well supported by female relatives, while men often relied on health professionals.
Takeaway
Becoming a parent is a big change, and many new parents feel unprepared for it. They want more support and information, especially for dads.
Methodology
Purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 first-time parents, focusing on their needs during pregnancy and early parenthood.
Potential Biases
The study may not fully represent the experiences of parents from diverse socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and primarily included English-speaking participants, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were mainly White-British, aged 18-35, with varied socio-economic backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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