Companionship in the perinatal period. A cross-cultural survey of women's experiences

Abstract

Recent research indicates that the nature of the companionship available for women during their transition to parenthood is important for psychological adjustment. The specific nature of the best provider and form of support is not yet well defined. Cross-cultural differences in women's preferences for supportive companions in the perinatal period occur. The present study explores what companionship is currently offered and by whom, and women's reactions to this in three different cultural groups.