Social Support in the Perinatal Period: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Life Course Antecedents.
Ebony J Biden, Elizabeth A Spry, Christopher J Greenwood et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether experiences before conception are associated with parents’ social support from pregnancy through 18 months postpartum. Across 143 studies published between 1986 and 2023, the authors identified 46 potential antecedents. Meta-analyses found lower perinatal support associated with adverse childhood experiences, mental health disorders, migration, having a subsequent child, and unplanned pregnancy. Evidence distinguishing structural from functional support was limited. Most studies relied on retrospective life histories, and few included fathers or examined relational antecedents.
Key findings
- Lower perinatal social support was associated with a history of adverse childhood experiences and mental health disorders.
- Migration, having a subsequent child, and unplanned pregnancy were also associated with lower perinatal support.
- The review included 143 studies and identified 46 potential preconception antecedents of perinatal social support.
- Evidence comparing structural and functional support was limited; few studies included fathers or relational antecedents.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that access to support during pregnancy and early parenthood may be shaped by experiences well before conception, including childhood adversity. Considering this broader context can help clinicians understand why support may be inadequate and whether available resources fit parents’ circumstances, while recognising that the evidence base has gaps.
What to keep in mind
Most studies assessed life histories retrospectively. Few included fathers or relational antecedents, and evidence distinguishing structural from functional support was limited.