Gaps in Postnatal Support for Intended Parents
1Jean Salera-Vieira is an Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Professional Development, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI. At the time that this study was conducted, Dr. Salera-Vieira was the Perinatal Clinical Nurse Specialist at Newport Hospital, Newport, RI. Dr. Salera-Vieira can be reached via email at salerarn@gmail.com.
MCN. the American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing
|June 19, 2023
Summary
Postnatal depression screening and support services are lacking for intended parents, including those in gestational surrogacy. This gap highlights the need for inclusive perinatal care policies and practices for all new parents.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health
- Reproductive health services
- Parental support systems
Background:
- Intended parents in gestational surrogacy face unique challenges during the transition to parenthood.
- Existing postnatal care models may not adequately address the specific needs of intended parents.
- Postnatal depression (PND) is a significant concern affecting maternal and paternal mental well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify existing gaps in postnatal depression screening and support services for intended parents.
- To assess the availability and accessibility of these services for intended parents compared to other parental groups.
- To inform the development of more inclusive and comprehensive perinatal care strategies.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive study utilizing quantitative and free-text survey questions.
- Survey distributed to 2,000 randomly selected postpartum nurses in the United States.
- Focus on nurses providing care to intended parents, with 125 respondents completing the survey.
Main Results:
- 37% of respondents reported postpartum support services are available for intended parents.
- A significant gap in postnatal services specifically for intended parents was identified through free-text responses.
- While 85% of settings screen for PND, neither fathers nor intended parents are routinely screened.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms a substantial gap in postnatal support and PND screening for intended parents.
- Recommendations include developing standardized policies and practices to support all parents, including intended parents.
- Adapting current systems is crucial to provide a continuum of care for diverse family structures and needs.
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