Qualitative investigation into pre- and post-natal experience of parents of triplets

Kotera, Y; Kaluzeviciute, G; Viliardos, LA

Abstract

Although parents of triplets experience substantial mental distress, research about this increasing population has primarily focused on physical health risks of triplets and mothers, failing to capture the subjective wellbeing of parents. Accordingly, this study aimed to understand first-hand experience of parents of triplets, using thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews participated by eight parents (four couples: Age M = 48.63, SD = 10.61 years). Six themes were identified: (1) Negative and (2) Positive experiences of raising triplets prenatally and postnatally, (3) Social, psychological, and material support, (4) Experiences and challenges specific to mothers and (5) fathers, and (6) Advice for future parents. These themes suggest that being reassured and accepting support from others are particularly essential in reducing stress and anxiety. Self-compassion interventions were recommended to support the wellbeing of parents of triplets. Our findings will help parents of triplets, their social circles, and healthcare workers to develop effective approaches to reduce the mental health difficulties that this under-researched population experiences.

Citation

Kotera, Y., Kaluzeviciute, G., & Viliardos, L. (2021). Qualitative investigation into pre- and post-natal experience of parents of triplets. Journal of Child and Family Studies, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-021-02200-1

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 27, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Dec 18, 2021
• Publication Date: Dec 18, 2021
• Deposit Date: Dec 20, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Dec 20, 2021
• Journal: Journal of Child and Family Studies
• Print ISSN: 1062-1024
• Electronic ISSN: 1573-2843
• Publisher: Springer Verlag
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-021-02200-1
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-021-02200-1
• Related Public URLs: http://www.springerlink.com/content/1062-1024/