IngentaConnect Online discussions mirroring family life during pregnancy

Abstract:

Objective: The aim of this study was to find out what aspects of their parenthood parents revealed, and how they expressed their thoughts concerning maternity care services on an online communication forum.

Background: The 'Information Society' offers a growing variety of health services as part of public primary health care via the internet. Little is known about the contents produced online by pregnant families, and how they reflect on both family life and maternity care services.

Methods: The data for this study were obtained from online discussions between families (n=21) in Net Clinic, an internet-based service designed for public maternity care. The data included experiences of family life during pregnancy, childbirth and parenting, and was analysed by inductive content analysis.

Results: While maturing into parenthood, both women and men recognised the uniqueness of their new role and wanted to prepare for safe childbirth. Online communication in the home environment nourished new social networks among families who were expecting their first, second or third child. In addition, families reflected on maternity care services on the Net Clinic's communication forum. This provided realistic feedback to maternity care professionals.

Conclusions: Today, the relationship between clients and professionals is inevitably changing. More online services and advocacy are needed if families are to have access to online health services. The role of professionals is diversifying from being authorities to supporting and facilitating clients' individual self-care. Based on direct client feedback, the quality of maternity care can be improved.

Keywords: INTERNET SUPPORT GROUPS; ONLINE MATERNITY SERVICES; PREGNANT FAMILY

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Doctoral Student in Nursing, University of Kuopio and Senior Lecturer in Healthcare Technology, Savonia Polytechnic, Health Professions Kuopio, Finland 2: Senior Lecturer, Department of Nursing Science, University of Kuopio, Finland 3: Professor, Department of Nursing Science, University of Kuopio, Finland 4: Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Kuopio and Professor and Chairman, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Kuopio, Finland