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Table 2 Themes and sub-themes identified in interviews

From: Women’s experiences of postnatal distress: a qualitative study

Theme and subthemes

Percentage (n) of women who mentioned the theme

Living with an unwelcome beginning

100% (17)

Distancing and avoidance of emotions

65% (11)

Birth-related distress

65% (11)

Guilt and self-blame

59% (10)

Breastfeeding experiences

71% (12)

Relationships in the healthcare system

100% (17)

Uncared for in the healthcare system

82% (14)

Unknown in the healthcare system

59% (10)

Positive experiences

71% (12)

The shock of the new

88% (15)

Adjustment to the unknown

82% (14)

Overwhelming responsibility

47% (8)

Inexperience

53% (9)

Meeting new support needs

100% (17)

Needing and seeking support

65% (11)

Action to help move on

100% (17)