JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The transition from pregnancy to motherhood is a major developmental life phase that can be a challenging time for women and their families. For new mothers, the postpartum period is recognised as a critical period for increased risk of both physical and mental health concerns. For this reason, it is imperative that women receive accurate, evidence-based information during this time.

Objective:

To explore the conversations of new mothers on an online parenting forum in order to investigate what topics or concerns are being discussed.

Methods:

A leading Australian online support forum for women pre- through to post-birth was used to obtain a sample of posts from mothers of infants 0-12 months old. A mixed-methods analysis was conducted including: modified grounded theory approach to inform a narrative overview of the finding, quantitative analysis of discussion topics, calculations of frequently used terms and analysis of discussion sentiment.

Results:

Two-hundred and sixty (260) posts were sampled. Mixed-methods analysis demonstrated infant care was the most prominently discussed topic, with feeding and sleep being the most discussed areas of infant care. Discussions about maternal care were much less frequent, but included questions about birth recovery, breastfeeding concerns and interconception. A pattern of behaviour emerged within posts. This pattern resembled a cycle of learning across five phases including 1/ help-seeking, 2/ solution ideation, 3/ testing and skill development, 4/ consolidation and 5/ empowerment and improved mental wellbeing. A dynamic interplay was observed as mothers navigated new concerns or developmental changes.

Conclusions:

Engagement in online forums to seek help and support during the postpartum period was common, with infant health and well-being primary concerns for new mothers during this time. Maternal health discussions were less common, emphasising the need for improved awareness and novel engagement strategies. The identification of a maternal learning cycle at play within the forum demonstrates the significant role online communities now play for maternal social support and in defining parenting.