Pub Date : 2025-10-13DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104628
{"title":"‘Making birth better: bringing together evidence, knowledge and experience’ international labour and birth research conference 2025","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104628","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104628","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"150 ","pages":"Article 104628"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145358270","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-12DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104633
Jia Wang , Rui Dong , Sen Qu , Dongchun Chang , Mengxia Hong , Yu Wang , Wen Zhong , Zhenqing Ren , Jie Wang
Background
Sedentary behaviour is prevalent and associated with adverse maternal outcomes. However, conflicting results exist regarding the relationship between maternal sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy and the consequences for offspring.
Aim
The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively synthesise the existing evidence on the associations of maternal sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy with offspring health outcomes.
Methods
Studies were obtained by searching relevant literature using seven databases from inception to February 4, 2025. Two independent reviewers screened the literature, assessed study eligibility, and extracted data. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A meta-analysis was conducted for a minimum of two comparable studies; otherwise, a narrative synthesis was employed.
Findings
Nine studies were included in this review. Outcome variables were birth outcomes (n = 8) and infant weight at 12 months (n = 1). Meta-analysis of two studies showed no statistically significant association between maternal sedentary time during pregnancy and low birth weight (odds ratio = 1.68, 95 % confidence intervals = 0.63–4.50). In the narrative synthesis, three studies found an association between maternal sedentary time during pregnancy and birth outcomes. Maternal sedentary time before pregnancy was associated with non-cardiac birth defects but not with birth weight or small for gestational age.
Conclusions
Although there is some evidence that mothers’ sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy may be associated with the health of offspring, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the impact on long-term offspring outcomes.
{"title":"The association of maternal sedentary behaviour before and during pregnancy and offspring health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Jia Wang , Rui Dong , Sen Qu , Dongchun Chang , Mengxia Hong , Yu Wang , Wen Zhong , Zhenqing Ren , Jie Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104633","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104633","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Sedentary behaviour is prevalent and associated with adverse maternal outcomes. However, conflicting results exist regarding the relationship between maternal sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy and the consequences for offspring.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively synthesise the existing evidence on the associations of maternal sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy with offspring health outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Studies were obtained by searching relevant literature using seven databases from inception to February 4, 2025. Two independent reviewers screened the literature, assessed study eligibility, and extracted data. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A meta-analysis was conducted for a minimum of two comparable studies; otherwise, a narrative synthesis was employed.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>Nine studies were included in this review. Outcome variables were birth outcomes (<em>n</em> = 8) and infant weight at 12 months (<em>n</em> = 1). Meta-analysis of two studies showed no statistically significant association between maternal sedentary time during pregnancy and low birth weight (odds ratio = 1.68, 95 % confidence intervals = 0.63–4.50). In the narrative synthesis, three studies found an association between maternal sedentary time during pregnancy and birth outcomes. Maternal sedentary time before pregnancy was associated with non-cardiac birth defects but not with birth weight or small for gestational age.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Although there is some evidence that mothers’ sedentary behaviour before or during pregnancy may be associated with the health of offspring, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the impact on long-term offspring outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104633"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145318564","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-11DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104631
Kristian P. Frausing , Eva E. Simonsen , Helen N. Madsen , Dorthe Sørensen , Jesper Dahlgaard , Rikke D. Maimburg
Background
Parity has been reported as a risk factor for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain (LBPP), but evidence is often based on retrospective self-report data from late pregnancy or the postpartum period. Less is known about whether parity influences pain severity once LBPP is present, and how it affects daily functioning and work participation.
Aim
To compare nulliparous and parous participants with clinically validated LBPP at mid- and later pregnancy, focusing on pain severity, functional limitations, and sick leave.
Methods
In a cross-sectional design, 222 pregnant women with LBPP completed questionnaires at routine antenatal consultations in gestational weeks 18 and 28. Pain was assessed on six numerical rating scales (0–10), and functional limitations on ten daily activities. Pain diagnoses were validated through clinical examination. Linear and ordinal regression models with robust standard errors were fitted, adjusting for age, job demands, and prior pain. Multiplicity was controlled using false discovery rate (FDR) correction.
Findings
Parous women reported higher pain scores across consultations, however differences were small and non-significant after FDR correction. In contrast, they consistently reported greater functional limitations in more demanding daily activities, particularly later in pregnancy. Parous participants were also substantially more likely to be on sick leave. This association remained robust after adjustment for covariates.
Conclusions
Among women with clinically defined LBPP, parity was not a strong predictor of pain severity but was associated with greater functional limitations and sick leave. These findings suggest that parity may be particularly relevant for the consequences of LBPP.
{"title":"Parity as a predictor of functional limitations and sick leave in pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain: A Danish cross-sectional study","authors":"Kristian P. Frausing , Eva E. Simonsen , Helen N. Madsen , Dorthe Sørensen , Jesper Dahlgaard , Rikke D. Maimburg","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104631","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104631","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Parity has been reported as a risk factor for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain (LBPP), but evidence is often based on retrospective self-report data from late pregnancy or the postpartum period. Less is known about whether parity influences pain severity once LBPP is present, and how it affects daily functioning and work participation.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>To compare nulliparous and parous participants with clinically validated LBPP at mid- and later pregnancy, focusing on pain severity, functional limitations, and sick leave.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In a cross-sectional design, 222 pregnant women with LBPP completed questionnaires at routine antenatal consultations in gestational weeks 18 and 28. Pain was assessed on six numerical rating scales (0–10), and functional limitations on ten daily activities. Pain diagnoses were validated through clinical examination. Linear and ordinal regression models with robust standard errors were fitted, adjusting for age, job demands, and prior pain. Multiplicity was controlled using false discovery rate (FDR) correction.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>Parous women reported higher pain scores across consultations, however differences were small and non-significant after FDR correction. In contrast, they consistently reported greater functional limitations in more demanding daily activities, particularly later in pregnancy. Parous participants were also substantially more likely to be on sick leave. This association remained robust after adjustment for covariates.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Among women with clinically defined LBPP, parity was not a strong predictor of pain severity but was associated with greater functional limitations and sick leave. These findings suggest that parity may be particularly relevant for the consequences of LBPP.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104631"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145301957","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-11DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104632
Margareta Widarsson, Marianne Velandia, Marie Grufman Pellfolk, Birgitta Kerstis
Problem
Due to the varied support available for students, a need was identified to ensure quality and evidence-based supervision on equal terms for clinical studies. Background: Midwifery preceptors are vital to clinical education as they support students in developing practical and professional skills. The Learning in Pairs (LiP model) encourages peer collaboration.
Aim
To describe the experiences of preceptors and students in midwifery education during the implementation and use of the LiP model in delivery wards.
Methods
Four focus group interviews were conducted with ten midwifery preceptors and six students. Data were collected using open-ended questions and analysed through content analysis.
Findings
The LiP model supports collaboration, reflective practice, and development for midwifery students and preceptors. Clear guidelines and balanced distribution of tasks were key elements in creating a structured and supportive learning environment. The model fostered growth, confidence, and independence, symbolised by the theme “Planting Seeds for a Garden of Learning”, which reflects sustainable learning in clinical education.
Discussion
Active support from preceptors facilitated student learning. Collaboration and role rotation contributed to increased independence and confidence. The LiP model fostered autonomy and teamwork, aligning with national guidelines that recommend two midwives working collaboratively during the active phase of the second stage of labour. Further follow-up research is warranted.
Conclusion
Implementing the LiP model in midwifery education may create a win-win situation by fostering a learning environment and enabling more efficient use of supervisory resources through scheduling of students in pairs. It may facilitate students' learning processes by ensuring high-quality supervision during clinical education.
{"title":"Learning in pairs in Swedish delivery wards: A win-win approach for midwifery preceptors and students","authors":"Margareta Widarsson, Marianne Velandia, Marie Grufman Pellfolk, Birgitta Kerstis","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104632","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104632","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Problem</h3><div>Due to the varied support available for students, a need was identified to ensure quality and evidence-based supervision on equal terms for clinical studies. <em>Background:</em> Midwifery preceptors are vital to clinical education as they support students in developing practical and professional skills. The Learning in Pairs (LiP model) encourages peer collaboration.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>To describe the experiences of preceptors and students in midwifery education during the implementation and use of the LiP model in delivery wards.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Four focus group interviews were conducted with ten midwifery preceptors and six students. Data were collected using open-ended questions and analysed through content analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>The LiP model supports collaboration, reflective practice, and development for midwifery students and preceptors. Clear guidelines and balanced distribution of tasks were key elements in creating a structured and supportive learning environment. The model fostered growth, confidence, and independence, symbolised by the theme “Planting Seeds for a Garden of Learning”, which reflects sustainable learning in clinical education.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Active support from preceptors facilitated student learning. Collaboration and role rotation contributed to increased independence and confidence. The LiP model fostered autonomy and teamwork, aligning with national guidelines that recommend two midwives working collaboratively during the active phase of the second stage of labour. Further follow-up research is warranted.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Implementing the LiP model in midwifery education may create a win-win situation by fostering a learning environment and enabling more efficient use of supervisory resources through scheduling of students in pairs. It may facilitate students' learning processes by ensuring high-quality supervision during clinical education.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104632"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145346105","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-10DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104630
Michelle Anderson , Sharin Baldwin , Hannah Rayment-Jones , Fiona L Challacombe
Background
Women and birthing people who undergo caesarean section with general anaesthesia are in a state of controlled unconsciousness, meaning they do not experience the birth of their infant and are often unable to engage in early bonding interactions with their newborn. The impact of this on postnatal parental mental health and infant bonding is unknown.
Aim
This review aimed to establish what is known regarding the psychological impact of GACS, with or without Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, on parental mental health and infant bonding.
Methods
A scoping review was conducted following Arksey & O’Malley’s Five-Stage Methodological Framework in combination with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Databases including Maternity & Infant Care, MEDLINE & EMBASE (OVID), PUBMED, CINHAL were searched using MeSH terms, subject headings and keywords. Full text articles published up to May 2024 were included with no date restrictions.
Results
Five studies were identified: two focused on maternal mental health, one on childbirth experience, one on mother-infant bonding and one on father/partner experiences. No studies were identified specifically exploring ICU admissions following GACS. Findings indicated an increased risk of postpartum depression, birth dissatisfaction and impaired maternal-infant bonding for GACS compared to neuraxial anaesthesia groups. Additionally, the presence of fathers in the operating theatre during emergency GACS did not lead to adverse mental health outcomes three months postnatally.
Conclusion
Further research is required to better understand the psychological implications of GACS, particularly the impact on parental mental health and infant bonding.
{"title":"The impact of general anaesthetic caesarean section on parental mental health & infant bonding: A scoping review","authors":"Michelle Anderson , Sharin Baldwin , Hannah Rayment-Jones , Fiona L Challacombe","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104630","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104630","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Women and birthing people who undergo caesarean section with general anaesthesia are in a state of controlled unconsciousness, meaning they do not experience the birth of their infant and are often unable to engage in early bonding interactions with their newborn. The impact of this on postnatal parental mental health and infant bonding is unknown.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This review aimed to establish what is known regarding the psychological impact of GACS, with or without Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, on parental mental health and infant bonding.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A scoping review was conducted following Arksey & O’Malley’s Five-Stage Methodological Framework in combination with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Databases including Maternity & Infant Care, MEDLINE & EMBASE (OVID), PUBMED, CINHAL were searched using MeSH terms, subject headings and keywords. Full text articles published up to May 2024 were included with no date restrictions.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Five studies were identified: two focused on maternal mental health, one on childbirth experience, one on mother-infant bonding and one on father/partner experiences. No studies were identified specifically exploring ICU admissions following GACS. Findings indicated an increased risk of postpartum depression, birth dissatisfaction and impaired maternal-infant bonding for GACS compared to neuraxial anaesthesia groups. Additionally, the presence of fathers in the operating theatre during emergency GACS did not lead to adverse mental health outcomes three months postnatally.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Further research is required to better understand the psychological implications of GACS, particularly the impact on parental mental health and infant bonding.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104630"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145355309","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-09DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104627
Renske M. van Lonkhuijzen , Jeanne H.M. de Vries , Susanne Cremers , Annemarie Wagemakers
Background
Healthy nutrition during pregnancy is essential for mother and child. Midwives, as trusted sources of information, play a key role in supporting maternal health but current nutrition communication remains limited. The Power 4 a Healthy Pregnancy (P4HP) aims to improve the diet quality of pregnant women through four additional empowerment consultations on nutrition (three with midwives, one with a dietitian). The objective of this study was to evaluate the implementation of the P4HP programme from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs), with a focus on interprofessional collaboration, facilitators, and barriers.
Methods
A mixed-method process evaluation was conducted in the Netherlands, incorporating quantitative data from online surveys (n = 29; 18 midwives, 11 dietitians) using the Measurement Instrument for Determinants of Innovations, along with in-depth interviews (n = 36 HCPs). Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while interview data were analysed through thematic analysis.
Results
HCPs reported improved understanding of each other's roles in nutritional care and enhanced interprofessional collaboration. While dietitian consultations provided valuable personalized advice that empowered women to make healthier dietary choices, midwives played a crucial role in supporting the maintenance of these changes. Key facilitators included the program's clear procedures, implementation flexibility, and the HCPs' commitment to promoting healthy eating. The main barriers identified were time constraints and limited staff availability among midwives, as well as the financial burden associated with consulting a dietitian.
Conclusion
The P4HP programme successfully enhanced interprofessional collaboration between midwives and dietitians, offering significant nutritional support to pregnant women. However, addressing the financial barrier of out-of-pocket costs is crucial for facilitating broader integration into routine antenatal care.
{"title":"Midwives and dietitians’ perspectives on an empowerment programme to enhance diet quality in pregnant women: A mixed-method study","authors":"Renske M. van Lonkhuijzen , Jeanne H.M. de Vries , Susanne Cremers , Annemarie Wagemakers","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104627","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104627","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Healthy nutrition during pregnancy is essential for mother and child. Midwives, as trusted sources of information, play a key role in supporting maternal health but current nutrition communication remains limited. The Power 4 a Healthy Pregnancy (P4HP) aims to improve the diet quality of pregnant women through four additional empowerment consultations on nutrition (three with midwives, one with a dietitian). The objective of this study was to evaluate the implementation of the P4HP programme from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs), with a focus on interprofessional collaboration, facilitators, and barriers.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A mixed-method process evaluation was conducted in the Netherlands, incorporating quantitative data from online surveys (<em>n</em> = 29; 18 midwives, 11 dietitians) using the Measurement Instrument for Determinants of Innovations, along with in-depth interviews (<em>n</em> = 36 HCPs). Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while interview data were analysed through thematic analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>HCPs reported improved understanding of each other's roles in nutritional care and enhanced interprofessional collaboration. While dietitian consultations provided valuable personalized advice that empowered women to make healthier dietary choices, midwives played a crucial role in supporting the maintenance of these changes. Key facilitators included the program's clear procedures, implementation flexibility, and the HCPs' commitment to promoting healthy eating. The main barriers identified were time constraints and limited staff availability among midwives, as well as the financial burden associated with consulting a dietitian.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The P4HP programme successfully enhanced interprofessional collaboration between midwives and dietitians, offering significant nutritional support to pregnant women. However, addressing the financial barrier of out-of-pocket costs is crucial for facilitating broader integration into routine antenatal care.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104627"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145248049","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-08DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104629
Chia-Yin Lin , Kuang-Shing Shey , Chiung-Huei Chou , Wan-Lin Pan
Background
Although the end of COVID-19 as a global public health emergency was officially declared in 2023, the perceived risk of infection and the lingering effects of prevention measures continue to affect the psychological well-being of pregnant women. This is particularly evident in relation to anxiety about respiratory illnesses, labour pain, and medical interventions among perinatal women.
Objective
In this study, pandemic-related anxieties and childbirth experiences were explored among primiparous Taiwanese women in the postpandemic era. The analysis focused on these women’s emotional challenges and psychological adjustment processes.
Methods
In-depth interviews were conducted through a phenomenological approach with 20 primiparous women who had recently given birth at a regional teaching hospital in northern Taiwan. Data were collected between January and December 2023. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically, and codes and categories were compared manually using Excel spreadsheets to ensure consistency and rigour in theme development.
Results
Four major themes emerged: (1) discrepancy between expectations and reality, (2) childbirth as an unbearable ordeal, (3) when birth becomes a battle, and (4) fear of future childbirth. Participants reported considerable anxiety and trauma-like responses associated with unexpected labour changes, perceived infection risks, and a loss of bodily control.
Conclusion
Healthcare providers must not underestimate the compounded stress experienced by pregnant women in the postpandemic era. Clinicians should offer real-time explanations, emotional support, and psychological care to help mothers feel safe and positively process their childbirth experiences.
{"title":"Respiratory disease anxiety and negative pregnancy and childbirth experiences among pregnant women in the post-COVID-19 era","authors":"Chia-Yin Lin , Kuang-Shing Shey , Chiung-Huei Chou , Wan-Lin Pan","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104629","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104629","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Although the end of COVID-19 as a global public health emergency was officially declared in 2023, the perceived risk of infection and the lingering effects of prevention measures continue to affect the psychological well-being of pregnant women. This is particularly evident in relation to anxiety about respiratory illnesses, labour pain, and medical interventions among perinatal women.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>In this study, pandemic-related anxieties and childbirth experiences were explored among primiparous Taiwanese women in the postpandemic era. The analysis focused on these women’s emotional challenges and psychological adjustment processes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In-depth interviews were conducted through a phenomenological approach with 20 primiparous women who had recently given birth at a regional teaching hospital in northern Taiwan. Data were collected between January and December 2023. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically, and codes and categories were compared manually using Excel spreadsheets to ensure consistency and rigour in theme development.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Four major themes emerged: (1) discrepancy between expectations and reality, (2) childbirth as an unbearable ordeal, (3) when birth becomes a battle, and (4) fear of future childbirth. Participants reported considerable anxiety and trauma-like responses associated with unexpected labour changes, perceived infection risks, and a loss of bodily control.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Healthcare providers must not underestimate the compounded stress experienced by pregnant women in the postpandemic era. Clinicians should offer real-time explanations, emotional support, and psychological care to help mothers feel safe and positively process their childbirth experiences.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104629"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145308487","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-02DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104626
Mi Zhao, Jing Han, Suting Zhang, Ting Luo
Background
Pregnancy psychological distress is a critical determinant of maternal and infant health outcomes, however, there is a lack of clarity regarding its definition and conceptual meaning.
Aim
This concept analysis aimed to explore the concept of pregnancy psychological distress and establish an operational definition for application in practice, research and policy.
Methods
The Walker and Avant’s concept analysis was used to explore the concept of pregnancy psychological distress. A systematic literature search was conducted across five English (CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) and three Chinese (CNKI, WanFang, and VIP) literature databases from their date of inception to 1 October 2024. All selected papers were analysed for definitions of pregnancy psychological distress, as well as for its defining attributes, antecedents and consequences.
Results
Twenty-five papers were included. The defining attributes of pregnancy psychological distress include subjective emotionality, broad-spectrum affective variability and non-psychiatric aetiology. Antecedents include demographic and medical history factors, as well as social and psychological factors. Consequences include adverse maternal–neonatal outcomes, negative attitudes, avoidance behaviours and relational dysfunction.
Conclusion
This study provides a conceptual clarification of pregnancy psychological distress by distinguishing it from broader prenatal conditions. This elucidated concept establishes the necessary foundation for informing the development of targeted midwifery-led assessments and care, thereby bridging the gap between theory and clinical practice.
背景：怀孕心理困扰是孕产妇和婴儿健康结果的关键决定因素，然而，关于其定义和概念意义缺乏明确。目的：探讨孕期心理困扰的概念，为实践、研究和政策的应用建立可操作性的定义。方法：采用Walker和Avant的概念分析法，探讨孕期心理困扰的概念。系统检索了5个英文（CINAHL、PubMed、Web of Science、Scopus和Embase）和3个中文（CNKI、万方和VIP）文献数据库，检索时间从数据库建立之日至2024年10月1日。所有选定的论文分析了怀孕心理困扰的定义，以及其定义属性，前因和后果。结果：共纳入25篇论文。怀孕心理困扰的定义属性包括主观情绪、广谱情感变异性和非精神病学病因。前因包括人口统计学和病史因素，以及社会和心理因素。后果包括不良的母婴结局、消极态度、回避行为和关系功能障碍。结论：本研究通过将怀孕心理困扰与更广泛的产前状况区分开来，提供了一个概念性的澄清。这一阐明的概念为有针对性的助产主导的评估和护理的发展奠定了必要的基础，从而弥合了理论和临床实践之间的差距。
{"title":"Pregnancy psychological distress: A concept analysis","authors":"Mi Zhao, Jing Han, Suting Zhang, Ting Luo","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104626","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104626","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Pregnancy psychological distress is a critical determinant of maternal and infant health outcomes, however, there is a lack of clarity regarding its definition and conceptual meaning.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This concept analysis aimed to explore the concept of pregnancy psychological distress and establish an operational definition for application in practice, research and policy.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The Walker and Avant’s concept analysis was used to explore the concept of pregnancy psychological distress. A systematic literature search was conducted across five English (CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) and three Chinese (CNKI, WanFang, and VIP) literature databases from their date of inception to 1 October 2024. All selected papers were analysed for definitions of pregnancy psychological distress, as well as for its defining attributes, antecedents and consequences.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Twenty-five papers were included. The defining attributes of pregnancy psychological distress include subjective emotionality, broad-spectrum affective variability and non-psychiatric aetiology. Antecedents include demographic and medical history factors, as well as social and psychological factors. Consequences include adverse maternal–neonatal outcomes, negative attitudes, avoidance behaviours and relational dysfunction.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study provides a conceptual clarification of pregnancy psychological distress by distinguishing it from broader prenatal conditions. This elucidated concept establishes the necessary foundation for informing the development of targeted midwifery-led assessments and care, thereby bridging the gap between theory and clinical practice.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"151 ","pages":"Article 104626"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145280675","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-08-05DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104548
Isaac Byonanebye, Annette Namugaya, Rose Chalo Nabirye, David Mukunya, Julius N Wandabwa, Sarah Racheal Akello, Proscovia Nabachenje, Ivan Lume, Joshua Epuitai
Introduction: Globally, an increase in facility-based childbirth is associated with provision of care that may not align with the expectations of women. The study was conducted to explore expectations of women regarding intrapartum care and whether these expectations aligned with their experiences of care during a facility-based childbirth.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted among women who had given birth. We conducted 18 in-depth interviews to explore women's expectations, and preferences during childbirth. Women were also interviewed to explore their childbirth experiences, especially to determine whether their experience of care matched their expectations.
Results: We identified two themes: 1) What women want during intrapartum care and 2) What women received during intrapartum care. Most women prioritised maternal and neonatal survival during intrapartum care. Secondly, women wanted services to be available during childbirth. These included availability of adequate medicines, supplies, and healthcare providers. Thirdly, women who were scheduled for caesarean sections yearned for labour pain relief and postoperative pain relief after birth. Lastly, women wanted respectful maternity care and to give birth in clean facilities. Women who desired for positive birth outcomes including normal births noted that those expectations were met even among those who had caesarean births. Participants noted that medicines and supplies were available for them except for some supplies that were required for caesarean section. Women were surprised to receive respectful care despite hearsay stories of mistreatment in facilities, while the facilities were seen to be clean and hygienic. Although women desired pain relief for labour and postoperative pain, they perceived inadequate pain relief during and after operation.
Conclusion: Women had low expectations of care. Women's expectations were focussed on the bare minimum of maternal and neonatal survival. Women's expectations for availability of medicines, and optimal pain relief were not adequately met during childbirth. Addressing all the expectations of women during childbirth may promote positive childbirth experience, satisfaction and skilled birth attendance.
{"title":"Understanding the expectations and experiences of women during facility-based childbirth in Eastern Uganda: What do women want during childbirth?","authors":"Isaac Byonanebye, Annette Namugaya, Rose Chalo Nabirye, David Mukunya, Julius N Wandabwa, Sarah Racheal Akello, Proscovia Nabachenje, Ivan Lume, Joshua Epuitai","doi":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104548","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.midw.2025.104548","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Globally, an increase in facility-based childbirth is associated with provision of care that may not align with the expectations of women. The study was conducted to explore expectations of women regarding intrapartum care and whether these expectations aligned with their experiences of care during a facility-based childbirth.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A qualitative descriptive study was conducted among women who had given birth. We conducted 18 in-depth interviews to explore women's expectations, and preferences during childbirth. Women were also interviewed to explore their childbirth experiences, especially to determine whether their experience of care matched their expectations.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We identified two themes: 1) What women want during intrapartum care and 2) What women received during intrapartum care. Most women prioritised maternal and neonatal survival during intrapartum care. Secondly, women wanted services to be available during childbirth. These included availability of adequate medicines, supplies, and healthcare providers. Thirdly, women who were scheduled for caesarean sections yearned for labour pain relief and postoperative pain relief after birth. Lastly, women wanted respectful maternity care and to give birth in clean facilities. Women who desired for positive birth outcomes including normal births noted that those expectations were met even among those who had caesarean births. Participants noted that medicines and supplies were available for them except for some supplies that were required for caesarean section. Women were surprised to receive respectful care despite hearsay stories of mistreatment in facilities, while the facilities were seen to be clean and hygienic. Although women desired pain relief for labour and postoperative pain, they perceived inadequate pain relief during and after operation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Women had low expectations of care. Women's expectations were focussed on the bare minimum of maternal and neonatal survival. Women's expectations for availability of medicines, and optimal pain relief were not adequately met during childbirth. Addressing all the expectations of women during childbirth may promote positive childbirth experience, satisfaction and skilled birth attendance.</p>","PeriodicalId":18495,"journal":{"name":"Midwifery","volume":"149 ","pages":"104548"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144804428","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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