Mother’s experiences of shame and compassion in the early postnatal period: a thematic analysis

Julia Marsden; Koa Whittingham; Jenny Ziviani; Sophie O’Brien; Rebecca Redmond; Julie Jomeen; Pamela Meredith

doi:10.1016/j.midw.2025.104454

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Mother’s experiences of shame and compassion in the early postnatal period: a thematic analysis

Journal article

Open access

Peer reviewed

Mother’s experiences of shame and compassion in the early postnatal period: a thematic analysis

Julia Marsden, Koa Whittingham, Jenny Ziviani, Sophie O’Brien, Rebecca Redmond, Julie Jomeen and Pamela Meredith

Midwifery, Vol.147, pp.1-7

2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.midw.2025.104454

PMID: 40367717

Appears in UniSC Diversity and Inclusion Research Collection

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Abstract

compassion

perinatal

postpartum

qualitative

shame

support

UniSC Diversity Area - Life Stages

Background Mothers are less likely to seek support from maternity care providers who appear critical or judgmental. While compassion from providers can help mitigate the impact of shame, the experiences of shame within a mothers’ close support network remains unexplored. Aim The aim of the present study was to explore mothers’ experiences of shame and compassion within their support networks in the early postpartum period. Methods Fourteen mothers were recruited when their babies were approximately 3-months old from a larger Australian study on shame and compassion. A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews was undertaken. Findings Six themes were identified by the authors: (1) unravelling judgment; (2) are you with me or against me?; (3) the voice of doubt: am I failing at this?; (4) when mothering ideals don’t work out: managing shame in your village; (5) finding the right kind of support; and (6) weaving kindness into your role as a mother. All mothers, regardless of who shamed them turned towards others who were sensitive, sympathetic, and empathic, to cope with the shame experience. Discussion Shame experiences can significantly influence mothers’ willingness to access support, impacting their mental health. Maternity care providers can play a critical role in recognising and addressing these dynamics to foster a more supportive environment. Conclusion Understanding the complexities of shame and compassion can guide providers in creating compassionate care strategies that better serve mothers during this vulnerable period.

Details

Title: Mother’s experiences of shame and compassion in the early postnatal period: a thematic analysis
Authors: Julia Marsden (Corresponding Author) - Southern Cross University
Koa Whittingham - The University of Queensland
Jenny Ziviani - The University of Queensland
Sophie O’Brien - Southern Cross University
Rebecca Redmond - Southern Cross University
Julie Jomeen - Southern Cross University
Pamela Meredith - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Occupational Therapy
Publication details: Midwifery, Vol.147, pp.1-7
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone
Date published: 2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104454
ISSN: 1532-3099
PMID: 40367717
Grant note: The first author completed this work with funding from an Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship and a top-up scholarship from the Children’s Health Foundation.
Organisation Unit: School of Health - Occupational Therapy; Cancer Research Cluster; School of Health - Psychology
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991130099802621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Nursing

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