Maternal and Child Health Nurses: A vital link to the community for primiparae over the age of 35
Mary Carolan
HCTP Program, Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto.
PP: 133 - 142
Abstract
Australia, like other developed countries is exhibiting a trend towards childbearing later in life and this trend has been particularly evident in the last three decades. Social trends of declining birthrates and small nuclear families mean that the contemporary adult has far less exposure to children than adults of former generations.
Increasing female trends of employment and participation in higher education have also contributed to a postponement of childbearing, and more women than ever before are having a first baby >35 years. Mothering experiences for this group of women often occur in a situation of limited family or social support, geographical distance from family and with few links to the community. Together these factors make new mothering an isolating experience for some women.
This paper reports on findings from a longitudinal qualitative study, outlining the importance of maternal and child health nurses in providing support and in facilitating links to the community for primiparae >35 years.
Keywords
nursing, maternal support, social network, infant, primiparae >35, mothers
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