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A peer support intervention for first-time mothers: Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the mummy buddy program

The transition to motherhood, although joyous, can be highly stressful, and the availability of professional postpartum support for mothers is often limited. Peer volunteer support programs may offer a viable and cost-effective method to provide community-based support for new mothers. The aim of this study is to determine the feasibility of a peer volunteer support program-The Mummy Buddy Program-in which experienced volunteer mothers are paired with, and trained to offer social support to, first-time mothers.

Citation:
Law KH, Dimmock JA, Guelfi KJ, ...... Gibson L, et al. A peer support intervention for first-time mothers: Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the mummy buddy program. Women Birth. 2021;34(6):593-605.

Keywords:
Maternal health; Mental health; Postpartum depression; Social support.  

Abstract:
The transition to motherhood, although joyous, can be highly stressful, and the availability of professional postpartum support for mothers is often limited. Peer volunteer support programs may offer a viable and cost-effective method to provide community-based support for new mothers.  The aim of this study is to determine the feasibility of a peer volunteer support program-The Mummy Buddy Program-in which experienced volunteer mothers are paired with, and trained to offer social support to, first-time mothers.