Mature First-time Mothers on Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting: Informing the Transition to Motherhood

The research aimed to explore mature first-time mothers prenatal expectations and subsequent experience of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting. Two semi structured interviews were conducted with participants (n=15) aged 35 to 41 years. The study revealed the unique experience, challenges and impact of high-risk pregnancies. The research also demonstrated that a mature age women’s confident presentation may belie greater concerns around coping. Finally, the research highlighted mature age women’s individual strengths and challenges, supporting the need for individualised perinatal support.