Maternal Knowing and Social Networks: Understanding First-Time Mothers’ Search for Information and Support Through Online and Offline Social Networks

The postpartum period is an exciting yet stressful time for first-time mothers, and although the experience may vary, all mothers need support during this crucial period. In Canada, there has been a shift for universal postpartum services to be offered predominantly online. However, due to a paucity...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Qualitative health research 2018-08, Vol.28 (10), p.1552-1563
Main Authors: Price, Sheri Lynn, Aston, Megan, Monaghan, Joelle, Sim, Meaghan, Tomblin Murphy, Gail, Etowa, Josephine, Pickles, Michelle, Hunter, Andrea, Little, Victoria
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Canada
Connectedness
Discourse analysis
Female
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Health technology assessment
Humans
Infant Care - methods
Infant Care - psychology
Infant, Newborn
Information Seeking Behavior
Interviews as Topic
Medical personnel
Mothers
Mothers - psychology
Nova Scotia
Online Social Networking
Peer Group
Postpartum Period
Poststructuralism
Public health
Public Health Administration
Qualitative research
Social media
Social networks
Social Support
Young Adult
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Summary:The postpartum period is an exciting yet stressful time for first-time mothers, and although the experience may vary, all mothers need support during this crucial period. In Canada, there has been a shift for universal postpartum services to be offered predominantly online. However, due to a paucity of literature, it is difficult to determine the degree to which mothers’ needs are being effectively addressed. The aim of this study was to examine and understand how first-time mothers accessed support and information (online and offline) during the first 6 months of their postpartum period. Using feminist poststructuralism methodology, data were collected from focus groups and e-interviews, and analyzed using discourse analysis. Findings indicate that peer support is greatly valued, and mothers often use social media to make in-person social connections. Findings highlight how accessing support and information is socially and institutionally constructed and provide direction for health professionals to provide accessible postpartum care.
ISSN:1049-7323
1552-7557
DOI:10.1177/1049732317748314