To Do or Not to Do ... Primary Health Care Professionals Experiences With Mothers With Children Born of Sexual Violence

Mothers and their children born of sexual violence are at heightened risk for developing an insecure attachment relationship. These mothers and their children often enter care late or not at all, as they are not identified by health care professionals. In this qualitative study, semi structured interviews were conducted with sixteen professionals in primary care for pregnant women and/or young mothers with the aim to identify the status quo in knowledge and skills, challenges, and opportunities. Participants included among others professionals working at Youth Services, psychologists, and clinical nurse specialists. Through a thematic analysis, five themes were identified: the knowledge of the professional, discussing the sexual violence, suitable interventions, points of attention during care, and recommendations. Analysis revealed that three groups of professionals can be distinguished, based on their level of awareness of this target group and their available knowledge and skills. To improve primary care for mothers with children born of sexual violence an increase in awareness, knowledge, and skills is a necessary prerequisite. Scientifically based best practices are therefore necessary for health care professionals to provide adequate care for mothers with children born of sexual violence.

Automated summary

Mothers and children born of sexual violence are at risk of developing insecure attachment relationships, often not receiving adequate care due to lack of identification by healthcare professionals. A qualitative study was conducted to assess professionals' knowledge, challenges, and opportunities in providing care for this group, identifying varying levels of awareness and skills among professionals. Improving primary care for these individuals requires increased awareness, knowledge, and skills, with scientifically based best practices being essential for adequate care.