Parents' preparation and support in the early postnatal period during the first COVID-19 lockdown

Background/Aims

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no evidence to guide parenting or postnatal care. This article reports on one of three themes from a study that aimed to explore the new parents' experiences and their access to information and support during this period.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in July–August 2020 across three rural English counties, in partnership with two maternity and neonatal voices partnership groups. Participants (n=371) were parents of newborns recently discharged from hospital or born at home. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, as well as thematic and content analysis.

Results

The main theme was a lack of information and support. The subthemes highlighted a lack of information both antenatally and postnatally, a lack of professional and social support, and a lack of breastfeeding support.

Conclusions

Reduced postnatal services and disrupted support networks left many parents relying on informal online sources, revealing critical gaps in pandemic-specific maternity care.

Implications for practice

Recovery plans must address the long-term physical and mental health implications of the pandemic. Evidence-based guidance is required before future pandemics, including implications of disease transmission for newborn babies and how to support breastfeeding. Healthcare professionals should support parents to make decisions based on the best evidence available, including where to access appropriate online support and information.