Maternal & Child Health
PhD Opportunities in the College of Life Sciences
What is Maternal & Child Health?
Maternal & Child Health is concerned with the health of women as mothers and their newborn and also with the health and experiences of women and young children. Research in this field involves studies into the experiences of women in relation to childbearing and childbirth, and women’s experiences as teenagers, mothers, and parents in modern society. With a particular emphasis on reproductive health and gender-related issues, the research involves examinations of women’s experience of their reproductive function in early and late life, attitudes of parents and teenagers to aspects of reproduction, and aspects of sexual health and gender identity. The research is informed by the disciplines of nursing, midwifery, sociology and public health.
Maternal & Child Health is concerned with the health of women as mothers and their newborn and also with the health and experiences of women and young children. Research in this field involves studies into the experiences of women in relation to childbearing and childbirth, and women’s experiences as teenagers, mothers, and parents in modern society. With a particular emphasis on reproductive health and gender-related issues, the research involves examinations of women’s experience of their reproductive function in early and late life, attitudes of parents and teenagers to aspects of reproduction, and aspects of sexual health and gender identity. The research is informed by the disciplines of nursing, midwifery, sociology and public health.
What main areas of research are addressed?
A number of research projects are being conducted or have been recently completed in this field. These include:
- Choices in childbirth
- Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy
- Infertility
- First-time motherhood
- Women’s and mothers’ health
- Children’s health problems or potential health problems
- Health issues (mental or physical) or health promotion related to parenting
- Adolescent health
- Menopause
- Sexuality and sexual health issues
- Gender-related health issues
What research opportunities are available?
The School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems offers opportunities for graduate research training to master's and PhD level to suitable applicants.
Who are the researchers involved?
- Abbey Hyde
- Michelle Butler
- Jonathan Drennan
- Mary Casey
- Maria Brenner
Where does this research take place?
The research takes place at the UCD School of Nursing & Midwifery & Health Systems
