Research building

Pregnancy Stories II – Postpartum Care

Research
The first years after childbirth can be affected by persistent or new-onset maternal health problems related to pregnancy and childbirth, leading to a reduction in quality of life, maternal well-being, and mother-child bonding. Maternal health problems include extreme fatigue, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, urinary incontinence, anxiety and postpartum depression. Despite their prevalence, many women do not seek or receive appropriate care due to barriers such as limited awareness, normalisation of symptoms, stigma, or other difficulties accessing healthcare services.

In this research project, we investigate the prevalence of maternal health problems in the years following childbirth in the Netherlands. We also examine determinants of healthcare utilisation, women's experiences and functioning in the first year, access to postpartum healthcare in both the Netherlands and international contexts, and the societal and economic impact of common maternal morbidities.

The project aims to develop a new module on PratenOverGezondheid.nl using the HEXI methodology, focusing on women's experiences during the first year postpartum. Through video, audio, and written narratives, women share their experiences with recovery, health problems, daily life and motherhood after childbirth. The module aims to provide women, families, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers with accessible, evidence-based information.

Relevance

How our research benefits society

Postpartum health problems are common and can have long-term consequences for women, children, families, healthcare systems, and society. By generating new scientific evidence and making women's experiences visible through PratenOverGezondheid.nl, this project aims to increase awareness, support timely recognition of health problems, improve access to appropriate care, and contribute to the development of patient-centred postpartum healthcare. The PratenOverGezondheid.nl module will be freely accessible and can be used by women, healthcare professionals or for education purposes.

Contact

University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG)
Department of Primary and Long-term Care
Midwifery Science Northern-Netherlands
Internal postcode FA21
P.O. Box 196
9700 AD  Groningen

Visiting address

UMCG
Department of Primary and Long-term Care
Oostersingel | entrance 47 | building 50 | 2nd floor
Groningen
The Netherlands