Responding to maternal distress : from needs assessment to effective intervention

Fontein-Kuipers, Yvonne; van Limbeek, Evelien; Ausems, Marlein; de Vries, Raymond; Nieuwenhuijze, Marianne

doi:10.1007/S00038-016-0910-0

Title

Responding to maternal distress : from needs assessment to effective intervention

Author

Fontein-Kuipers, Yvonne

van Limbeek, Evelien

Ausems, Marlein

de Vries, Raymond

Nieuwenhuijze, Marianne

Abstract

Objectives To perform a needs assessment of maternal distress to plan the development of an intervention for the prevention and reduction of antenatal maternal distress. Methods We searched PubMed, OVID and EBSCO and applied the PRECEDE logic model to select the data. Experts in the field validated the findings. Results We identified 45 studies. Maternal distress was associated with diminished maternal and childs quality of life. Aetiological factors of maternal distress included past and present circumstances related to obstetric factors and to a womans context of living, coping behaviour, and support mechanisms. Lacking knowledge of coping with (maternal) distress was identified as a predisposing factor. Reinforcing factors were relaxation, partner support, counselling experiences and positive interaction with the midwife. Enabling factors were the availability of a support network. Conclusions When planning the development of an antenatal intervention for maternal distress, it is advisable to focus on assessment of antenatal emotional wellbeing, the context of the womans past and present circumstances, her coping behaviour and her environment. The identified predisposing factors, enabling and reinforcing factors should also be taken into consideration.

Language

English

Source (journal)

International journal of public health. - Berlin, 2007, currens

Publication

Berlin : 2017

ISSN

1661-8556 [print]

1661-8564 [online]

DOI

10.1007/S00038-016-0910-0

Volume/pages