Reach All - individual visits with the midwife for all expectant parents
This pilot project aims to explore ways of providing more equitable care for all expectant parents. Specifically, this is done by testing and evaluating a clarified role for midwives in how they interact with expectant parents who are not carrying the child (expectant fathers and non-birthing partners).
The project aims to increase involvement and engagement among expectant fathers and non-birthing parents during pregnancy, which in turn may contribute to more present parenting and better health for the whole family. The project is led by Karolinska Institutet together with the Maternal Health Unit in Region Stockholm, and is carried out in collaboration with clinically active midwives from various parts of the region.
Previous research has shown that when both of a child’s parents are engaged already during pregnancy, the likelihood of active and present parenting during early childhood increases. Health-promoting efforts targeting all expectant parents can support better health for the family and the child. Since 2018, child health centers (BVC) offer individual parental consultations for fathers and non-birthing parents. In this research project, a similar approach is being tested within maternal health care.
The project aims to
- Highlight the treatment and inclusion of expectant fathers and non-birthing parents
- Explore how an individual visit influences engagement in parenting
- Promote knowledge-sharing, parental equality, reduce worry, and identify mental health concerns
- Evaluate and develop the midwife’s role in including both parents already during pregnancy
Status of the project
Pilot testing of individual visits was conducted during autumn 2025 and spring 2026. Data on feasibility and satisfaction among the target group and staff will be analysed, with results expected in 2027.
When results from the pilot study are analysed, the next step will be decided upon.
Ethics and funding
Ethics approval will be sent to the Swedish Ethical Review Authority prior to study commencement. The study is funded by FORTE (Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare). The organizational development is funded by the MFOF (Family Law and Parental Support Authority).
Project members
Emma Fransson
Principal investigatorLic. Psychologist at the Maternal Health Unit | Associate Professor in Medical Psychology at Uppsala University | Affiliated researcher Karolinska Institutet
Mikaela Louise Brodén
Phd Student
Jennie Lenntorp
Project midwifeMaternal Health Unit Region Stockholm
Anna Akselsson
Affiliated researcherMaternal Health Unit Region Stockholm