Factors influencing the quality of intimate relationships six months after delivery--first-time parents' own views and coping strategies

The aim of this study was to describe and analyze first-time parents' experiences of factors that affect the quality of their intimate relationship and the way they cope with their situation six months after delivery. The method used was inductive qualitative content analysis of two open questions in a larger questionnaire. The data is based on 535 respondents' statements. The factors affecting the quality of the intimate relationship were available or missing and could be classified into four categories. 1. 'Coping by adjustment to parental role', e.g., mutual support as new parents, 2. 'The couple's 'intimacy', i.e., togetherness and love, 3. 'Coping by communication', i.e., verbal and non-verbal mutual confirmation, and 4. 'Coping with external conditions', e.g., by seeking social support. The results are described in a model, which could constitute a basis for the promotion of health in family health care, with the aim, if possible, of preventing unnecessary separations/divorces after couples become parents.