Then they’re not there. Women’s experiences following admission of their newborn to a neonatal intensive care unit.

Abstract

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a complication of pregnancy associated with neonatal morbidities including admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). Previous research highlights a lack of birth satisfaction and trauma for women following admission of their baby. Previously, research has focussed on a pre-term population. This study aimed to explore the experiences of women, diagnosed with GDM, whose babies were admitted to NICU at any gestation. Methods A 24-item, fully qualitative online survey was launched through JISC on 28th July 2023, shared through social media and online platforms. Inclusion criteria specified women who had been diagnosed with GDM, lived and received care in the UK and whose baby was admitted to NICU at or shortly after birth. Ethical approval was granted by Bournemouth University. Results 18 women participated in the survey. Two primary themes were identified: ‘experience’ and ‘understanding’, further separated into five and three sub-themes respectively. A lack of understanding and knowledge was identified, with calls for enhanced education and joint decision making. Women recalled feelings of grief, isolation and stress as a result of the admission. For many, this experience was traumatic with lasting effects. For babies born at term, feelings of surprise and separation were paramount, in contrast to those born pre-term. Conclusion There is need to increase education and improve current material to support women who find themselves facing this outcome. Future research should also focus on reducing the incidence of admission to NICU for women who have received a diagnosis of GDM.