Australian women's experiences and perceptions of interconception care: a qualitative descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Health
• Women's Health

Background:

• Interconception care, the period between pregnancies, is essential for improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
• It includes reviewing past pregnancies, managing risks, advising on spacing, and providing postpartum contraception.
• Current provision is inconsistent, with limited understanding of women's perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Australian women's perceptions and experiences of interconception care.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to engaging with interconception care services.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews with 15 women.
• Reflexive thematic analysis was employed for data interpretation.

Main Results:

• Two key themes emerged: lack of engagement with services and difficulties in accessing care.
• Women were unfamiliar with the term 'interconception care' but recognized it as a distinct need, often sought in primary care.
• Participants desired proactive support from healthcare professionals on postpartum issues and lifestyle modifications, highlighting inconsistent and opportunistic care delivery.

Conclusions:

• Increased awareness of interconception care among women and healthcare professionals is necessary.
• Enhanced education and woman-centered continuity of care are crucial to meet women's needs during this life stage.