Perception of Primiparous Teen Mothers Regarding Skin-to-Skin Contact with Their Newborn in Postpartum: Qualitative Descriptive Research

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Sasiya Buaphut
Wantana Somnukprasert
Chularat Howharn
Matanee Radabutr
Titirat Noikerd

Abstract

Background: Skin-to-skin contact in the delivery room is an important initial step in establishing the mother–infant relationship. It reflects maternal love and attachment and may also reduce stress through stress-regulation mechanisms in both the mother and infant.


Objective: To explore primiparous adolescent mothers’ perceptions of mother–infant skin-to-skin contact after childbirth.


Methods: This qualitative descriptive study involved 15 primiparous adolescent mothers who had normal vaginal births at a hospital. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected until data saturation was achieved. Data were obtained using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis.


Results: Seven major themes emerged: 1) Early bonding after birth; 2) Maternal role attainment; 3) Relief from postpartum suffering; 4) Reassurance about infant safety; 5) Self-acceptance and forgiveness; 6) Clinical nursing support and communication; and 7) Empowerment for breastfeeding. The initial letters of these themes form the acronym “EMBRACE.”


Conclusion: The findings may serve as a foundation for developing guidelines on immediate mother–infant skin-to-skin contact after birth. Such guidelines may strengthen the mother–infant relationship and enhance adolescent mothers’ confidence and readiness to assume the maternal role.

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How to Cite
Buaphut, S., Somnukprasert, W., Howharn, C., Radabutr, M., & Noikerd, T. (2026). Perception of Primiparous Teen Mothers Regarding Skin-to-Skin Contact with Their Newborn in Postpartum: Qualitative Descriptive Research. BCNNON Health Science Research Journal, 20(2), e286731. retrieved from https://he01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/JHR/article/view/286731
Section
Original Articles

References

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