Parenting newborn twins : mothers’ experiences

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers parenting newborn twins, with the main objectives being to identify the positive aspects of parenting twins, explore the provision of midwifery care to this group of mothers and to explore mothers’ challenges in caring for their newborn babies. In order to achieve the aim and objectives, a qualitative study consisting of face-to-face semi-structured interviews, with questions designed by the researcher, was carried out. The research sample consisted of six (n=6) mothers of twins, at six-eight weeks postpartum who were attending the Well-Baby Clinic and the response rate was 100%. The information gathered from the interviews was analysed using the Braun and Clarke (2006) method of thematic analysis The results indicate that mothers parenting newborn twins considered the experience to be very positive overall, even though all mothers identified challenges which they are experiencing in their new role as mothers of twins. Participants also emphasised the importance of support received from family members and how this helped them cope with the challenges they encountered. Mothers also identified certain aspects of midwifery care which may need improvements such as the care given to them during the night shifts and during the time of change of shift and also regarding the advice mothers received from their midwives. For this reason, the researcher has proposed relevant recommendations for practice, education and further research.