Article
Nursing
Antonella Nespoli, Sara Ornaghi, Sara Borrelli, Patrizia Vergani, Simona Fumagalli
Summary: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of partners of COVID-19 positive childbearing women during the pandemic. The findings revealed that the absence of birth companions during childbirth and hospitalization had a significant emotional impact, and identified key elements of good practice to promote positive childbirth experiences.
Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Lisa K. Forbes, Margaret R. Lamar, Megan Speciale, Courtney Donovan
Summary: This study found that early socialization of gender role norms influences parenting beliefs among parents. During the pandemic, factors such as gender and ethnicity impact parents' intensive parenting beliefs. Additionally, the severity of the outbreak and the duration of school closures also play a role in shaping parents' beliefs about intensive parenting.
CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Hazel Keedle, Kimberley Tomczak, Belinda Lequertier, Hannah G. Dahlen
Summary: The study examines the real-time experiences of women who were pregnant and gave birth during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. The findings reveal that these women experienced heightened anxiety, which was influenced by the model of care and the home environment.
BMC PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Soo Jung Kim, Yin Min Aye, Danipa Panyarachun, Seo Ah Hong, Yan-Shing Chang
Summary: This study examined the levels of social support provided to postpartum women in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed that more than half of the women reported receiving high support. Factors such as being married, having a higher education, intending pregnancy, good health, good sleep quality, receiving counsel from peers or family, and using internet or social media to reduce stress and depression were associated with high social support.
Article
Nursing
Helen Hall, Romy Lauche, Sarah Fogarty, Joy Kloester, Bethany Carr, Niki Munk
Summary: Partner delivered massage is a feasible and practical method for pregnant women to manage mild anxiety, providing useful skills to support maternal mental health and partner connection after childbirth.
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Roos Hijdra, Wim Rutten, Jessica Gubbels
Summary: This study assessed the quality of care experienced by Dutch midwives during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings showed that the quality of midwifery care was considered sufficient, despite the challenging circumstances. However, midwives faced issues such as lack of face-to-face check-ups, unclear information, and lack of personal protective equipment, leading to increased workload.
Article
Clinical Neurology
Jennifer E. Khoury, Leslie Atkinson, Teresa Bennett, Susan M. Jack, Andrea Gonzalez
Summary: The study found high rates of depression, anxiety, and insomnia during pregnancy, with levels higher than non-COVID pregnant samples. Factors such as social isolation, financial difficulties, relationship problems, and the threat of COVID-19 were associated with mental health issues. Social support was linked to lower mental health problems, while negative cognitive appraisal was associated with more mental health problems.
JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS
(2021)
Article
Clinical Neurology
G. F. Giesbrecht, L. Rojas, S. Patel, V Kuret, A. L. MacKinnon, L. Tomfohr-Madsen, C. Lebel
Summary: The study found that fear of COVID-19 during pregnancy is associated with food insecurity, ethnicity, geographic location, history of anxiety prior to pregnancy, chronic health condition, pre-pregnancy BMI, parity, and stage of pregnancy at enrollment. Higher fear of COVID-19 is linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety, as well as reduced infant birthweight and gestational age.
JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS
(2022)
Review
Health Care Sciences & Services
Natasa Mlinar Reljic, Maja Drescek Dolinar, Gregor Stiglic, Sergej Kmetec, Zvonka Fekonja, Barbara Donik
Summary: The aim of this study was to evaluate the advantages and limitations of e-learning for nursing and midwifery students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through literature review and thematic analysis, e-learning was found to be an effective learning method for nursing and midwifery students during this period, but it also presented challenges related to internet access, technical equipment, finances, and work-family commitments.
Article
Nursing
Cuiping Liu, Chongyu Yue, Lei Liu, Ting Liu, Xuelei Wang, Yan Hou, Shaobo Gao
Summary: The aim of this study was to explore the mediating role of perceived social support in the association between perceived stress and job burnout in midwives. A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 329 midwives from 20 hospitals in China. The results showed that perceived stress was negatively associated with social support and positively associated with job burnout. Social support was negatively correlated with job burnout. The study suggests implementing social support programs for midwives to control the impact of perceived stress on job burnout.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Hannah Kate Kelly, Shulamit Geller, Viren Swami, Geva Shenkman, Sigal Levy, Damien Ridge
Summary: This study examined the experiences of gay fathers who had a baby through transnational surrogacy and their parenthood experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings showed that surrogacy was seen as a risky endeavor that required strong determination. The first year of parenthood was described as both joyful and challenging for fathers in terms of their identities and mental health. The study highlighted the significant role of relationships in shaping experiences of surrogacy, perinatal distress, and recovery.
Article
Nursing
Lesley Kuliukas, Yvonne Hauck, Linda Sweet, Vidanka Vasilevski, Caroline Homer, Karen Wynter, Alyce Wilson, Rebecca Szabo, Zoe Bradfield
Summary: The impact of COVID-19 on midwifery students in Australia has led to challenges in communication, learning, and feelings of value during clinical placements. The emotional burden of witnessing compromised midwifery care, along with personal household responsibilities and financial concerns, were highlighted as major issues for students. On the positive side, women's appreciation of an improved postpartum period was identified as a silver lining amidst the challenges. The findings of this study may inform future management of midwifery education during pandemics or health crises.
NURSE EDUCATION IN PRACTICE
(2021)
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Angelo Fumia, Anthea Miller, Caterina Cernigliaro, Maria Zaccone, Vanessa Salamone, Enza Mastrantonio, Sebastiano Gangemi, Giovanni Pioggia, Nicola Cicero
Summary: The immune system of pregnant women is vulnerable to changes, and the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected their psychological state. Proper nutrition and the use of specific vitamins and micronutrients may help improve the psychological condition and immune system of pregnant women, reducing the risk of COVID-19.
Review
Physiology
Elizabeth A. N. Wastnedge, Rebecca M. Reynolds, Sara R. van Boeckel, Sarah J. Stock, Fiona C. Denison, Jacqueline A. Maybin, Hilary O. D. Critchley
Summary: Pregnancy-related physiological changes may have varying impacts on the progression of COVID-19, with the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on pregnant women still undetermined. Asymptomatic infections and indirect consequences of the pandemic pose challenges for maternal health.
PHYSIOLOGICAL REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Shayzal Siddiqui, Carolyn Smith-Morris
Summary: In low-income countries like Pakistan, the professionalization of midwifery has not been fully achieved, leading to stagnation in reducing maternal mortality rates. Traditional midwives still hold influence in rural communities despite having lost status. The study highlights the importance of long-term presence and trust in maternal care, particularly in resource scarce or fearful conditions.
SOCIAL SCIENCE & MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Donya Eghrari, Michelle J. L. Scoullar, Alyce N. N. Wilson, Elizabeth Peach, Arthur Elijah, Pele Melepia, Hadlee SupSup, Lisa M. M. Vallely, Peter M. M. Siba, Elissa C. C. Kennedy, Joshua P. P. Vogel, Caroline S. E. Homer, Leanne J. J. Robinson, Freya J. I. Fowkes, William Pomat, Brendan S. S. Crabb, James G. G. Beeson, Christopher J. J. Morgan
Summary: Knowledge of newborn danger signs among women in Papua New Guinea is very low, which may hinder their ability to seek timely medical care. Antenatal and postnatal education, as well as policies supporting women and their families in education and decision-making, are urgently needed.
BMC PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Joshua P. Vogel, Veronica Pingray, Fernando Althabe, Luz Gibbons, Mabel Berrueta, Yeshita Pujar, Manjunath Somannavar, Sunil S. Vernekar, Alvaro Ciganda, Rocio Rodriguez, Saraswati A. Welling, Amit Revankar, Savitri Bendigeri, Jayashree Ashok Kumar, Shruti Bhavi Patil, Aravind Karinagannanavar, Raveendra R. Anteen, M. R. Pavithra, Shukla Shetty, B. Latha, H. M. Megha, Suman S. Gaddi, Shaila Chikkagowdra, Bellara Raghavendra, Elizabeth Armari, Nick Scott, Katherine Eddy, Caroline S. E. Homer, Shivaprasad S. Goudar
Summary: This study aims to develop and optimize a strategy for implementing the WHO Labour Care Guide (LCG) and evaluate its effectiveness through a randomized trial. The strategy includes a training program, supportive supervision, and audit and feedback. The trial will evaluate the impact of the LCG strategy on the rate of Caesarean sections, clinical and process of care outcomes, and women's experience of care. The findings will provide crucial evidence for the implementation of the LCG internationally.
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Nursing
Linda Sweet, Katherine O'Driscoll, Tija Blums, Margaret Sommeling, Rachel Kolar, Glyn Teale, Karen Wynter
Summary: This study explores the experiences and perspectives of midwives and doctors participating in or supporting a publicly-funded homebirth program in Australia. The findings indicate that effective relationships between healthcare professionals play a crucial role in the success of the program.
Article
Nursing
Kath Brundell, Vidanka Vasilevski, Tanya Farrell, Linda Sweet
Summary: The education pathways for midwifery registration in Australia have diversified over the years, shifting from hospitals to universities. The language used to describe midwives' educational backgrounds has a negative impact on their professional identity. While all registered midwives have the same skill set, separatist language leads to reduced midwifery identity and higher attrition rates. Adopting a positive discourse and inclusive workforce can strengthen job satisfaction and intention to remain in the profession, regardless of the pathway of midwifery education.
Article
Nursing
Marjorie Atchan, Kristen Graham, Nicki Hartney, Ruth Martis, Lauren Kearney, Kym Davey, Rea Daellenbach, Helen Hall, Linda Sweet
Summary: This study explored the early parenting and infant feeding experiences of mothers from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings showed that while some women found solace and personal achievements in social distancing, others experienced isolation and distress. The results highlighted the importance of timely and appropriate professional support in establishing breastfeeding and developing parenting confidence, and the need to prioritize this in health policies.
Review
Nursing
Lois McKellar, Kristen Graham, Athena Sheehan, Julie-Anne Fleet, Mary Sidebotham, Linda Sweet
Summary: This study aims to critically examine the literature to explore the historical and current drivers, supports, and impediments for midwifery education programs in Australia and identify strategies to strengthen midwifery education. The findings reveal that quality midwifery education has been established in Australia through collaboration and opposition. Recognizing midwifery as a distinct profession and transformative leadership have been crucial in this evolution to maintain standards and quality.
Article
Nursing
Lesley Kuliukas, Jane Warland, Peta Cornell, Brooke Thomson, Helen Godwin, Zoe Bradfield
Summary: This paper describes an innovative midwifery course where students acquire more than 50% of their clinical hours through continuity of care experiences. Additional educational strategies are incorporated to enhance the continuity of care experience. The aim is to prepare graduates for employment within midwifery group practice models.
Review
Health Care Sciences & Services
Nicole Freeman, Zoe Bradfield, Kate Cheney, Jane Warland
Summary: The objective of this review is to examine the role and scope of midwives and registered nurses in acute early pregnancy care settings in Australia. The review will explore the literature to understand how their roles and scope are described in this setting. The findings will be presented in tabulated and narrative formats.
JBI EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Sherrie L. Kelly, Tom Walsh, Dominic Delport, Debra Ten Brink, Rowan Martin-Hughes, Caroline S. E. Homer, Jennifer Butler, Olanike Adedeji, Davide De Beni, Federica Maurizio, Howard S. Friedman, Doretta Di Marco, Federico Tobar, Maria Pilar de la Corte Molina, Andre S. Richards, Nick Scott
Summary: Reducing unmet need for modern contraception and expanding access to quality maternal health services are priorities for improving women's health and economic empowerment. This study estimated the cost and expected benefits of achieving the United Nations targets of zero unmet need for modern contraception and 95% coverage of maternal health services by 2030 in select Small Island Developing States.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Rana Islamiah Zahroh, Katy Sutcliffe, Dylan Kneale, Martha Vazquez Corona, Ana Pilar Betran, Newton Opiyo, Caroline S. E. Homer, Meghan A. Bohren
Summary: This study aimed to identify essential intervention components that lead to successful implementation of interventions targeting pregnant women to optimize caesarean section (CS) use. The researchers conducted a re-analysis of existing systematic reviews and found that group-based delivery, provision of communication materials, involvement of partners or family members, and interaction with health providers are key components for successful interventions.
Article
Nursing
Olivia Tierney, Vidanka Vasilevski, Leigh Kinsman, Linda Sweet
Summary: The aim of this study was to identify the key learning intentions of the Continuity of Care Experience through an expert panel. Three main themes and six sub-themes were found to describe the learning intentions, which include advocacy for women, accountability of care, and autonomy in practice.
NURSE EDUCATION IN PRACTICE
(2023)
Review
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Paula Medway, Alison Hutchinson, Linda Sweet
Summary: Australia's national maternity strategy, titled "Woman-centred care: strategic directions for Australian maternity services," was released by the federal government in November 2019. The strategy aims to provide national guidance on woman-centred maternity care and is based on four values and twelve principles. This review examines the current provision of maternity care in relation to these values and finds that although there is alignment, not all women receive care in accordance with the values, particularly those from priority populations. It emphasizes the need for a coordinated national response to better meet the maternity care needs of Australian women.
SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE
(2023)
Review
Education, Scientific Disciplines
J. Lees, M. Bearman, T. Risor, L. Sweet
Summary: This study investigates the relationship between technology and touch in student learning of physical examination practices during clinical clerkships. The results indicate that technology plays a significant role in facilitating the learning of physical examination, including enhancing diagnostic accuracy and providing supplementary learning materials. The study emphasizes the need for further research on the touch versus technology relationship.
PERSPECTIVES ON MEDICAL EDUCATION
(2023)
Review
Nursing
Madeline Hawke, Julie Considine, Linda Sweet
Summary: This study assesses the existing research on shared decision-making in antenatal care and finds that its implementation requires continuity, time, and personalized care. Shared decision-making is an important component of person-centered healthcare.
BIRTH-ISSUES IN PERINATAL CARE
(2023)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Linda Sweet, Vidanka Vasilevski, Lee-Anne Lynch, Joanne M. Said
Summary: This study aimed to understand the experiences of women and clinicians participating in a pilot trial to determine the acceptability of a study protocol. The results showed that pregnant women are more likely to participate in clinical trials when they perceive low risks and are well-informed during decision-making. Clinicians will support clinical trials when they perceive a benefit to practice and feel assured that women receive extensive monitoring and support.
HEALTH EXPECTATIONS
(2023)
