Exploring subjective wellbeing after birth: A qualitative deductive descriptive study

Fiona Alderdice, Fiona Alderdice and Phyl Gargan, Phyl Gargan (2019) Exploring subjective wellbeing after birth: A qualitative deductive descriptive study. European Journal of Midwifery, 3 (1). pp. 1-8. ISSN 2585-2906

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Abstract

INTRODUCTION Subjective wellbeing is made up of cognitive (life satisfaction and
positive functioning) and emotional (positive and negative affect) components. The
subjective wellbeing of women in the perinatal period is poorly understood compared to
that experienced by the general population. The aim of this paper is to describe women’s
experiences of subjective wellbeing postpartum using the European Social Survey
Wellbeing module to facilitate discussion.
METHODS Nineteen women aged 18−40 years who had given birth within the past 6
months participated in two focus groups (n=9 and n=10). Participants in the focus groups
were invited to complete the European Social Survey Wellbeing module and this was used
as the basis for discussion.
RESULTS Women recognized that many aspects of their wellbeing were compromised
after having a baby, e.g. vitality and positive functioning. Women reported that the time
after birth was often challenging in terms of feeling good about themselves. Women were
often tired and did not always trust their own abilities as a parent. Woman reported feeling
socially isolated after giving birth and highlighted the importance of their relationships
in terms of feeling valued. Changes in relationships were a source of stress and conflict.
Many women reported that they did not feel engaged with their local community.
CONCLUSIONS Women perceive their subjective wellbeing to be different after birth.
A better understanding of the aspects of wellbeing that may be challenged after birth
could facilitate provision of tailored support for women and their family to maximize their
continued good health and wellbeing.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	wellbeing, postnatal, qualitative
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Divisions:	Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Medicine
Depositing User:	Mrs Ni Made Yunia Dwi Savitri
Date Deposited:	15 Jun 2022 03:19
Last Modified:	15 Jun 2022 03:19
URI:	http://eprints.triatmamulya.ac.id/id/eprint/1185

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