ArticleBJGP open2025
Content and timing of the 6-8 week maternal postnatal check: a mixed-methods study.
Article in BJGP open, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 3 papers.
What it found
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
The trial behind it
Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.
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Who cites it
3 citing papers in PubMed.
- Maternity care bundle for UK women with multiple long-term health conditions: coproduction workshops.BMJ open · 2026Article
- Postpartum check-ups with general practitioners in Norway: a cross-sectional survey of attendance, content and patient satisfaction.BMC primary care · 2025Article
- Perinatal care in primary care for cardiovascular risk reduction.Clinical medicine (London, England) · 2025Article
Corrections and comments
PubMed lists nothing against this paper. Absence here is not a guarantee, only a check that was made.
Authors and funding
7 authors.
Funding
No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
backgroundSince 2020, the General Medical Services contract requires GP practices in England to offer women a GP appointment 6-8 weeks after birth: the '6-8 week postnatal check' or 'consultation'. Historically, provision of checks was variable, and women still frequently report poor experiences.
aimTo explore GPs' and women's perspectives of the 6-8 week postnatal check, including key components and timing. DESIGN &
settingA mixed-methods study was undertaken with focus groups of GPs and women, and an online survey of GPs in England.
methodFocus groups explored GPs' and women's experiences of postnatal consultations. An online survey explored GPs' clinical approach, organisation, and improvement potential. Quantitative analysis examined associations between demographics and clinical approach. Thematic framework analysis was used for qualitative data.
resultsIn total, 18 women and 14 GPs participated in focus groups; 671 GPs completed the survey. Mental wellbeing and contraception were reported as important topics, although some women were not asked about mental health. GP survey responses indicated most recommendations from national guidance were 'always' or 'very often' covered by most, but not all GPs. Clinical coverage was higher for GPs who used clinical templates, had awareness of guidance, were female, or were a parent. Many GPs (
conclusionThis study suggests GPs are allocated insufficient time for postnatal consultations, with substantial variation in practice. Specifying consultation duration and consideration of template usage in policy may improve care and outcomes for women.
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Registered trials
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