Separation between mothers and newborns directly after birth: mothers’ experiences of separation – a qualitative analysis from a cohort study

Abstract

Objective The first hour after birth is a sensitive period for the mother–newborn dyad and, according to evidence-based routines, should be respected and protected. However, a gap exists between the strive for zero separation and current practices. Therefore, our aim was to investigate mothers’ experiences of mother–infant separation directly after birth. Design, setting and participants A qualitative study based on open-ended questions from a survey. The sample was drawn from an ongoing national cohort study (Mom2B, N=∼9000). Data was extracted from responses of participants (n=441) during the period 2023–2025. We included mothers who had been separated from their newborns directly after birth and who had completed the open-ended questions about separation and their related experiences. Thematic analysis was conducted. Results One overarching theme emerged: ‘Separation, an experience beyond the mother’s control’. This theme referred to the healthcare system being organised in such a way that two individuals in need of care from different units could not stay together, even when the individuals were mothers and their newborn. The mothers and their newborns were often separated, even if only one of them needed care, due to existing routines and organisation. Mothers questioned the reasons for separation and described it as anxiety-inducing and traumatic. Conclusion The mothers’ experiences and reasons for separation highlight structural obstacles within a healthcare system that need to be addressed to minimise the significant burden of such separation.