Rural Women's Transitions to Motherhood: Understanding Social Support in a Rural Community

Abstract

Social support protects women from various negative consequences, yet we have little understanding of how rural women acquire and utilize social support. Using interviews of 24 women in a North Dakota community, this research sought to understand how rural women were supported as new mothers. One, familial women and partners were vital supports to these women. Two, medical professionals were expected to provide only the “medical part,” consisting of medical information and delivery procedures. Finally, dangers of limited social support were examined. Peer support programs and screening are discussed as potential avenues for addressing maternal distress in rural communities.

KEYWORDS:

• social support
• rural
• motherhood
• mental health
• postpartum depression