Assessing mothers' concerns in the postpartum period: methodological issues

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Sociology of Motherhood

Background:

• Assessing postpartum maternal concerns is crucial for understanding the transition to motherhood.
• Existing methods for evaluating maternal concerns have not been thoroughly assessed for their sensitivity in data collection.
• Evaluating the sensitivity of different data collection tools is essential for accurate research findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the sensitivity of a semi-structured interview schedule versus a card sort method in assessing postpartum concerns among women.
• To compare the effectiveness of these two methods in eliciting information about maternal worries and interests.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 110 mothers was followed up at 1 and 6 weeks postpartum in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
• Participants with at least 7 years of primary education were interviewed and completed a card sort; others were interviewed only.
• The order of interview and card sort was alternated to assess potential method interaction.

Main Results:

• Mothers who completed the card sort before the interview reported more worries and interests related to themselves and their babies at both 1 and 6 weeks.
• The card sort method generally yielded a higher extent of expressed worry and interest on specific topics compared to interviews alone.
• The order of methods did not affect how women categorized card sorts as worries or interests.

Conclusions:

• The card sort method demonstrates higher sensitivity in gathering information on women's postpartum concerns compared to semi-structured interviews.
• While interviews can reach less educated populations, card sorting presents fewer barriers and is more participatory for those able to use it.
• Card sorting is a valuable, sensitive tool for exploring maternal concerns, offering a more engaging approach for participants.