Meaning-making of existential aspects of motherhood transition: a systematic qualitative review protocol using framework synthesis

INTRODUCTION: Evidence-based, compassionate practice is a key objective in midwifery care, with particular emphasis on existential aspects of women's experiences during the transition to motherhood. In 2014, a scoping review was published exploring this phenomenon. The interest in this review exemplified the growing scholarly and clinical interest in this subject. However, the scoping review is outdated and does not meet up-to-date methodological standards. This qualitative systematic review will synthesise qualitative studies that explore the existential aspects of becoming a mother, aiming to identify potential unmet needs and articulate women's preferences for care during motherhood transition. Findings from this synthesis may contribute valuable insights for developing evidence-informed clinical guidelines that promote person-centred and holistic maternal care. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This qualitative systematic review will use framework synthesis based on Peter la Cour's model of Existential health. The data will be collected from five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science), which will be searched from 2010 to the present day. Study selection will prioritise the transition to motherhood in contemporary Western countries. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required for a review, and findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, conferences and social media. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD420251018563.