Representation of young mothers in Australian maternity and health care policy: A qualitative content analysis

OBJECTIVES: Young mothers aged 15-24 years face complex maternity health needs, including higher risks of mental health issues, barriers to consistent and non-judgmental care, and increased social isolation and stigma. This study aims to examine how the health care needs of young mothers are represented in Australian maternity policies. STUDY DESIGN: A qualitative content analysis. METHODS: This qualitative content analysis used a Foucauldian approach to analyse seven Australian national and regional Tasmanian maternity and health care policy documents. Data was extracted and placed into predefined categories. RESULTS: The policy documents provided minimal evidence to guide and inform service provision for young mothers who live in regional, rural, and remote areas. The disconnect between global, national, and local policy relating to identified health issues and maternal health care for young mothers was evident. CONCLUSIONS: The paucity of specific documented maternal health strategies and service provision for young mothers within national, statewide and local policy is apparent. This has led to poor policy development and guidance for young mothers. Further policy developments targeting service provision and maternal health care for young mothers living in regional, rural and remote areas needs to be addressed.