Supporting the transition to parenthood: Development of a group health-promoting programme

Abstract

Background Many Western countries have a strong record of obstetric safety; however, there are disparities in other indicators (such as morbidity) and best-practice outcomes, including breastfeeding rates and perinatal depression. Aims To pilot a multifaceted psycho-educational group programme for first-time parents. Methods This alternate-allocation study compared an intervention programme (n=10) and a comparison group (n=8) who received routine care with the addition of a weekly telephone call. Findings There were distinct differences between groups at followup, with the intervention group reporting lower depression scores and exclusive breastfeeding. Trends included positive adjustment to..