Exploring the lived experiences of mothers of extremely preterm infants within the UK: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Journal article
Authors | Robinson, S, Williams, S., Hallam, J. and Jackson, J. |
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Abstract | Background: The adverse impact of preterm birth on maternal mental health is well documented, yet there is limited available research regarding the subjective experiences of mothers of extremely preterm infants as a distinct cohort. Aims: Explore the lived experiences of mothers of extremely preterm infants, born alive at less than 28 weeks gestation, in the UK. Methods: Three mothers of extremely preterm infants participated in a semi-structured interview conducted online which invited them to share their experiences of pregnancy, their time in NICU, the transition home and their present-day experiences. Results: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) explored a delayed transition to mothering and experiences relating to initial disconnection, missed moments and establishing a maternal connection. Conclusions: Owing to the traumatic experiences associated with an extremely preterm birth mothers of extremely preterm infants would benefit from health visitor support relating to attachment, mental health and connecting to parenting communities. |
Keywords | extremely preterm infants; trauma; maternal mental health; maternal identity; qualitative research |
Year | 2023 |
Journal | Journal of health visiting |
Journal citation | 11 (2), pp. 74-81 |
Publisher | MAG Healthcare |
ISSN | 2052-2908 |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.12968/johv.2023.11.2.72 |
Web address (URL) | https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/johv.2023.11.2.72 |
Accepted author manuscript | File Access Level Controlled |
Output status | Published |
Publication dates | |
Online | 15 Feb 2023 |
Publication process dates | |
Deposited | 13 Feb 2023 |
https://repository.derby.ac.uk/item/9w97y/exploring-the-lived-experiences-of-mothers-of-extremely-preterm-infants-within-the-uk-an-interpretative-phenomenological-analysis
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