MUMS: Mapping and Understanding Mothers' Social Networks

The early days and months after giving birth are considered to be a very exciting and stressful time for new mothers. New mothers have unique needs during this transition period and they require a great deal of support from professionals and family/peers. It is essential that new mothers have access to the services and resources best able to support their needs during this critical time. Although we know that new mothers have access to support through a variety of sources, including health care providers, family, social media, and friends, we do not have an understanding of how and where they seek support and whether or not these resources meet their needs. In addition, with a decrease in formal programs and an increase in informal supports through the community and the internet, there is a need to map the resources available to new mothers. In order to best support the health and well being of new mothers and their infants/families, we must obtain an updated understanding of their needs and their access to supports. This research study will use a qualitative, multiple method approach to explore how new mothers identify and prioritize their own postpartum needs and where they go to access information and support within six months of giving birth. This study will use feminist poststructuralist methodology, discourse analysis as well as social network analysis and mapping to critically examine how new mothers across Nova Scotia access support. Findings from this study will provide a comprehensive mapping of formal and informal postpartum resources used by new mothers as well as direction for health care providers to better respond to the needs of new mothers. Results from this study will be shared with communities and organizations across and outside of Canada to enhance the well being and health outcomes for mothers, infants and families.