Improving care for new mothers with postnatal morbidity in Ireland

Abstract

Background Pathways to dedicated clinics for women in Ireland who experience morbidity during the antenatal, intrapartum or postnatal periods are lacking. In view of this, a postnatal morbidity clinic was set up and an evaluation was conducted with clinic attendees with the aim of improving the service by using the results to guide the expansion and improvements. Methods A survey was developed using two validated questionnaires of women who were discharged from the clinic over 6 months. Surveys were self-completed and returned by 92 women, then analysed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results Several areas were highlighted for improvement, such as expanding debriefing services, making a more precise plan of action upon discharge and improving continuity of care. Conclusions Postnatal morbidities exert a considerable toll on new mothers. Listening to women's experiences of attending the clinic guided the successful expansion of advanced midwife practitioner-led supports and improved efficiencies within the clinic as well as highlighting the importance of such a service for all women.