Facing a new life-The healthy transition to motherhood: What individual and environmental factors are needed? A phenomenological-hermeneutic study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to highlight first-time mothers’ experiences of the transition to motherhood uncovering personal and environmental conditions facilitating or preventing the process of a healthy transition in a Swedish context. DesignA qualitative study with interview data analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutic method. Setting and participantsTen recent first-time mothers were selected from three primary healthcare centers in western Sweden. FindingsFour themes emerged, and the transition could be divided into several phases, interpreted as facing a new life, while feeling unprepared for identity and existential issues. The experience of becoming a mother was described as oscillation between a loss of former identity from previous life, and on the other hand, the joy and expectations of forming a new family. The mothers had high demands of themselves, often influenced by social media and needed to value the flow of information and `let go of control` to be able to make adequate decisions. The close family of origin was invaluable in this process being able to provide confirmation in the new role, facilitating the development of their own security and self-confidence. Key conclusionsThe vulnerability expressed by new mothers shows that support from the family of origin, partners and professionals are indispensable. The desired result after the transition to motherhood is a prosperous, maturity and confident mother. The main promoting factor in this process seems to be having a safe base that can provide required support. Implications for practiceThe level of wellbeing after the transition is crucial and the possibility of a warm, responsive and secure parenting needs to be strengthened. The challenge to preventive health care will be to identify a lack of support and ensure that these mothers gain sufficient support to meet today´s demands and still feel that they are good enough mothers for their children.