Experiences of New Mothers with Premature Babies in Neonatal Care Units: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Although mother-newborn attachment is very important for infant development babies in need of neonatal intensive care have to be separated from their mothers. A mother might experience distress in bonding with her vulnerable newborn because of admission to the neonatal care unit (NICU). Purpose: The purpose of the study was to describe the new mothers’ experiences of having a premature baby at the NICU. Methods: This study was patterned with a descriptive qualitative design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 25 new mothers using semi-structured questions. Participant’s each word has been recorded. Records were transcribed and content analysis was made. Results: Four main themes and sub-themes were emerged regarding the experiences of mothers; 1) The barriers of having a premature newborn; feeling of separation from their baby, feeling of isolation towards NICU setting, feeling of emotional distress, 2) Lack of self-confidence for motherhood, 3) Maternal-newborn interaction, 4) Maternal-health staff interaction; insufficient communication and psychosocial support. Mothers stated that they felt themselves incompetent in terms of post-NICU care due to anxiety, inadequate support and self-confidence. They needed effective information about the hospital practices and post-NICU care. Conclusion: Mothers presented many feelings with some positive and negative experiences such as sadness, alienation, fear and anxiety, depression, guilty, losing their self-confidence about maternity skills, and insufficient bonding with their babies. Mothers also expressed their needs and expectations as emotional support and empathic approach from staff. It is extremely important for mothers to get psychological support in order to cope with the infants staying in NICU.