Self-care in early motherhood: A qualitative exploration of sleep, exercise, and making time for oneself

The postpartum period is often associated with poor maternal mental health, which is of detriment to new mothers and potentially their new-born.

Engaging in self-care behaviours is proven to prevent psychopathology and promote well-being, yet is often not prioritised among new mothers.

This qualitative study examined new mothers' experiences with the self-care behaviours of sleep, exercise, and having time for self.

Guided by the COM-B model of behaviour change, 12 women with babies less than 12-months old were interviewed to explore lived experiences regarding the three self-care behaviours. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to deductively explore capabilities, opportunities, and motivation to engage with these behaviours.

Motivation to avoid the undesirable consequences of sleep deprivation and maintain daily functioning was high, with sleep a self-care priority. Exercise was known to be beneficial and often desirable, but often not prioritised as it was considered effortful to accommodate and undertake. Time for self was largely absent and when taken was associated with guilt.

Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions that address barriers to postpartum self-care. Sleep interventions could improve sleep hygiene, exercise promotion explore the integration of movement into daily caregiving routines rather than relying on structured workouts, and finally, explore how personal time is perceived and supported to manage feelings of guilt.

By recognising and addressing challenges with maternal self-care, healthcare providers and families can better support new mothers in prioritising self-care, thus improving maternal well-being.