Implications for practice and research

• The transition to parenting involves major changes for most women and support is often needed.

• Maternity caregivers need to assess sources of social support for each woman and promote understanding within her community of the importance of social and physical support during the postnatal period.

• The influence of emotional, physical and psychological support on a woman’s psychosocial health following birth continues to be poorly understood and requires more research.

Context

The transition to motherhood is a major life change which requires a period of adjustment for most women. This change can affect a woman's personal identity and social role, and lead to …