Table 3 Summary of themes and subthemes
Stage of Pregnancy | Theme | Subtheme |
|---|---|---|
Pregnancy | 1. Some pregnancy discomfort alleviated by social distancing measures | 1.1 Avoidance of unwelcome attention from others 1.2 Better management of health and wellbeing through staying at home |
Pregnancy and Parenthood | 2. Importance of relationships that support coping and adjustment | 2.1 More time to build a connection as a family 2.2 Benefits of the support bubble system 2.3 Importance of parent groups for support |
3. Missed pregnancy and parenthood experiences | 3.1 Grief for a missed pregnancy experience 3.2 Sadness that pregnancy and parenthood could not be shared with others | |
Birth | 4. Mental health consequences of birth partner and visitor restrictions | 4.1 Upset about partners being excluded from healthcare interactions 4.2 Stress of decision making and help seeking without partners present |
Across the care pathway (pregnancy, birth and postnatal) | 5. Maternity services under pressure | 5.1 Emotional impact of delays and staff shortages 5.2 Lack of clarity around social distancing rules within healthcare settings |
6. Lack of connection with staff | 6.1 Communication difficulties 6.2 Prevention of touch due to COVID-related restrictions 6.3 Disruptions to continuity of care |