Mental health challenges in triplets. V1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mother´s perspectives on mental health challenges in triplet pregnancies: a qualitative study.
IRAS ID
358496
Contact name
Jasmine Palmer
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King´s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NA, NA
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 2 days
Research summary
This qualitative study explores the emotional and psychological experiences of mothers who have undergone triplet pregnancies. Given the high-risk nature and complex demands of such pregnancies, the study aims to gain in-depth insights into the mental health challenges and resilience of these mothers. The primary objective is to understand how mothers navigate the psychological impacts associated with carrying and parenting triplets, including the stress of intensive caregiving, medical complications, and the emotional toll of high-risk pregnancy.
Secondary objectives include examining coping strategies and sources of resilience over time, identifying risk and protective factors for maternal mental health, and assessing mothers' experiences with psychological and emotional support from healthcare professionals. The study also seeks to explore the unique challenges faced by mothers who experience the perinatal loss of one or more fetuses while continuing with the pregnancy or caring for surviving infants.
The study will involve approximately 20 participants, identified through the Fetal Medicine Unit at King’s College Hospital. Eligible participants include mothers who have had triplet pregnancies resulting in at least one surviving infant. Those with complete pregnancy loss or major pre-existing psychiatric conditions are excluded. Semi-structured interviews, conducted either in person face-to-face at Harris Birthright Center Kings College Hospital, or via secure video-call, will last around one hour and will allow participant-led narratives.
Data from these interviews will be recorded (only audio), transcribed, anonymised, and analysed using generative thematic analysis and constant comparison methods. Demographic information will be summarised to contextualise findings. The insights gained will help inform better psychological support and care strategies for mothers facing the complex realities of triplet pregnancies, including those affected by perinatal loss.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
25/WS/0146
Date of REC Opinion
11 Sep 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion