Midwives' perception of their work for a Childrearing Support Home Visitation program in Japan

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess how midwives perceive their work for a Childrearing Support Home Visitation program in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative descriptive study. The participants were 12 midwives who belonged to the Japan Midwives Association and engaged in the Childrearing Support Home Visitation program in Japan. Data regarding how midwives perceive their work for the program were collected through semi-constructive interviews. Their responses were then analyzed using a qualitative inductive approach.

Results

Twenty-six sub-categories and nine categories were extracted regarding how the midwives perceived their work for the program. The nine categories were further summarized into 3 groups. First, “Establishing relationships with clients to develop a good rapport for a continuous visit,” “Utilizing knowledge and skills as a midwife, and the strength of continuing support;” and “Accepting the client personalities and improving midwife capabilities to enhance confidence” were classified as “Importance and difficulty in creating relationships with clients.”

Second, “Managing their own work-related stress,” “Recognizing work-related stress when their client support is insufficient,” “Rewarding the accomplishments brought on by midwife support,” and “Feeling that their perspective on various issues increased their activity as a midwife,” were classified as “Work-related stress and job satisfaction as a supporter”.

Third, “Determining the scope of responsibility and the limit of their support,” and “Recognizing the necessity of communication with other midwives in the same program” were classified as “Difficulties and problems with providing support”.

Conclusion

Midwives recognized their contribution to the Childrearing Support Home Visitation program as providing continuous support related to their own specialty. They considered that engaging in this program broadened their view and increased their activities in midwifery, suggesting that such activity in the community leads to professional growth. On the other hand, they recognized psychological challenges which required peer support when they faced clients. They also determined the limit of their own support.