Maternal experiences of preterm birth and neonatal intensive care

Abstract

Thirty-six mothers of infants admitted to three neonatal intensive care units were interviewed to explore their experiences. The main enquiry focused on: (a) interactions with professional caregivers, (b) maternal feelings, perceptions and sensitivities and (c) psychological adaptation to preterm birth and events around the early new-born period. Interviews were conducted between 4 and 9 days following birth when infants were no longer considered to be critically ill. Findings highlight the crisis nature of the event for mothers and provide insight into their adaptive processes. There are indications of how practitioners might best support families in their efforts to develop their parental role.