Mothers’ personal growth in the first year: the role of perceived childbirth experience and support

Introduction: The study examined mothers’ personal growth in the first year after childbirth, investigating the contribution of several aspects of the childbirth experience (assisted delivery, length of labour, pain during labour, infant’s weight, gestation week, and two dimensions of the Hebrew BSS-R: perception of positive childbirth and of the quality of professional care), as well as the role of social support. Methods: Israeli mothers (n = 408) completed a set of self-report questionnaires up to one year following the birth of their first child/ren. Results: Positive correlations were found between mother’s growth and higher perception of the birth as positive, higher perceived care provided by the health team during labour, and higher perceived support from people close to her. Regression analysis indicated the significant contributions of the quality of care by the professional health team and the support provided by others to mothers’ personal growth in the first year of motherhood. Discussion: The results highlight the importance of receiving support during the various stages of the transition to motherhood. It is recommended that professionals encourage support for new mothers not only to ensure their adaptation to parenthood, but also to enhance their potential to thrive.