Preparing families for birth and parenthood – changes compared to the previous generation

Abstract

Introduction: Childbirth and becoming a parent is of crucial importance to families and individuals. This eternal and ever-changing life event challenges the family-specialized professionals acrossgenerations.
Aims: The goal of this study was to examine changes compared to the previous generation focusing on the approach to preparation for birth and parenthood, based on literature research and own professional experience. Furthermore, we examined changes (1) in the transformation of family types, the perceptions of family functioning and parental responsibilities, (2) the modern approach to childbirth and maternity support, (3) and the system of professional support.
Results: (1) Family models havetransformed so that either married couples, life partners, single-parents or blended families bring up children. A novel approach has been developed in the way how families work (i.e. system approach) and parental responsibilities (i.e. thinking about family life cycle as regards parental responsibilities). (2) Supporting practices have emerged to reduce fear of childbirth and pain. Nowadays, childbirth is considered as a natural process, and the external physical environment as well as the childbearingsupport role has become important. Family-oriented obstetric attitudes and practices have improved. (3) New legislation on professional work has been created. The system of professional support (e.g. care, group preparation, and self-improvement) has undergone quantitative (i.e. new professions) and qualitative changes.
Conclusions: Significant changes have happened in all three examined areas compared to the previous generation. Recent changes suggest that performing a continuous review of all three exam-ined aspects can contribute to a successful preparation.