Developing the Maternity Portfolio to promote maternal role attainment in women who have undergone artificial reproductive treatment

• Published in: Japan journal of nursing science : JJNS 2012-12, Vol.9 (2), p.122-126
• Main Authors: IWATA, Hiroko, MORI, Emi, MAEKAWA, Tomoko, MAEHARA, Kunie, SAKAJO, Akiko, OZAWA, Harumi, MORITA, Akiko
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Female; Humans; infertility; Japan; Longitudinal Studies; maternal behavior; maternal-child nursing; Nursing; nursing care; Pregnancy; reproductive techniques; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; Role
• ISSN: 1742-7932; 1742-7924
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7924.2011.00192.x

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to develop the Maternity Portfolio to promote maternal role attainment in women who underwent artificial reproductive treatment. Methods:  The following procedures were undertaken to develop the Maternity Portfolio: (i) a literature review was conducted to identify studies and articles related to maternal diary or portfolio usage; (ii) the research members discussed objectives and usages of the Maternity Portfolio; (iii) a trial product was developed in collaboration with two pregnant women (one following artificial reproductive treatment and one infertility patient) and seven nurses, and after feedback was completed, the product was revised; and (iv) the final product of the Maternity Portfolio was patented. Results:  The final Maternity Portfolio product consisted of a 40‐page booklet; it contained an information section and a patient comments section. Following artificial reproductive treatment, this booklet can be provided to women during the first trimester. Women would then be instructed to bring the Maternity Portfolio to their prenatal checkups, where a nursing intervention program would be conducted by certified nurses. Through this program and the Maternity Portfolio, participating women are expected to obtain necessary information and maternal role attainment. Conclusions:  The Maternity Portfolio was developed to promote maternal role attainment for women who have undergone artificial reproductive treatment. The intervention study with the Maternity Portfolio is a work in progress; therefore, a future evaluation of the study will clarify both positive and negative aspects, which should facilitate refinement of the functions and qualities of the Maternity Portfolio.