Exploring health information needs of midwives to support their care for mothers with anxiety and depression during the antenatal and postpartum period in the Western Cape

Abstract

Background: Mothers experience anxiety and depression during antenatal and postpartum period; midwives need evidenced-based information to improve their care services to mothers experiencing anxiety and depression during the antenatal and postpartum period. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the information needs of midwives to care for mothers with anxiety and depression during the antenatal and postpartum period in the Western Cape. Methods: The study employed a qualitative research approach with exploratory and descriptive design which involves interviewing professional midwives. This study was conducted at a primary health care facility in Cape Town. Purposive sampling technique was used to select twelve (12) participants. The interview guide questions, and audio recorder were used to conduct face to face interviews. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Ethics approval was obtained from Biomedical Ethics Committee at the University of the Western Cape.