Parents' experiences with public health nursing during the postnatal period: A reflective lifeworld research study

Aim

To describe mothers' and fathers' experiences with public health nursing and child and family health centre services in the postnatal period, both as a couple and as individuals.

Method

A phenomenological reflective lifeworld research approach with a descriptive design was chosen. A purposive sample of 10 mothers and 10 fathers were interviewed twice, 1–2 and 6–8 weeks postpartum, using joint and individual interviews. By focusing on being open and flexible, the data were analyzed to elucidate a meaningful structure of the phenomenon.

Results

The findings revealed that parents’ experiences with public health nurse (PHN) and Child and Family Health Centre (CFHC) services in the postnatal period are characterised by a longing to be seen and confirmed both as unique individuals and as a family by the PHN. Although an increased need for both lay and professional care is prominent during the postnatal period, the parents drew a varied picture of their experiences demonstrating that the CFHC services are focussing almost exclusively on mother and child.

Conclusion

A public health nurse can contribute to strengthen parenthood and promote the family's health when the focus is on the new baby. Being cared for while learning to care for the baby is pivotal in a phase that involves both joy and vulnerability. This study adds knowledge concerning the importance of both parents being seen and confirmed by the PHN as unique individuals and a family unit in the postnatal period.