Building Bonds: Pre and post evaluation of an education program for midwives to support the early mother-infant relationship

Abstract

Background: Supporting the social-emotional development of the infant during their early years is crucial to lifelong health. Midwives are well placed to promote positive maternal and infant wellbeing, particularly to encourage the emerging mother-infant relationship through education and support. Aim: To evaluate the self-reported confidence, knowledge and ability of the midwives who participated in the ‘Building Bonds’ education to support the mother-infant relationship and assess their satisfaction with the activity. Design: Mixed methods using a pre and post-survey design Methods: Validity and reliability of the purpose-designed survey was undertaken. The survey was implemented in December 2023 at a metropolitan hospital prior to and after undertaking the online educational intervention. Results: Thirty-three midwives completed the pre-survey, 15 completed the post-survey, with 13 of the respondents matched to both the pre- and post-surveys. Overall, the midwives reported a positive change in confidence, attitude, knowledge and ability to support the mother-infant relationship after completing the ‘Building Bonds’ education. Half of the participants had never received education regarding the mother infant relationship and reported benefit in practice from engaging in the education. Conclusion: Midwives have an essential role in supporting the development of the mother-infant relationship and value the knowledge and confidence gained through the ‘Building Bonds’ education. Many midwives reported they had incorporated what they had learnt into practice. Providing midwives with ongoing education to ensure that they have the confidence, attitude, knowledge and ability to support the mother-infant relationship is important.