Transition to Parenthood: Parents’ Experiences of a Home Visiting Programme in Disadvantaged Areas of Sweden

Background Early childhood represents a critical period for promoting health equity, particularly for families facing social and economic disadvantage. In Sweden, extended home visiting programmes have been introduced to strengthen early preventive support for first-time parents in disadvantaged areas. This study explored how parents experienced such a programme in Gothenburg, Sweden, with attention to trust-building, accessibility, and perceived support. Methods A qualitative design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 parents from 16 families who had participated in the Rinkeby Extended Home Visiting programme. Participants were strategically selected to capture variation in gender, family structure, and migration background. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results One overarching theme – Transition to parenthood – encompassed three main themes: navigating early parenthood , receiving reassurance and support in the parental role , and building trust through relationships with professionals . Parents described the early months as emotionally intense, often marked by isolation, insecure housing, or migration-related stress. Home-based visits provided reassurance, practical guidance, and emotional validation. The combination of a nurse and a parental supporter offered complementary expertise and was seen as a key strength. Trust developed through continuity, respect, and flexibility, which enabled open communication and acceptance of support. Conclusions Extended home visiting was experienced as meaningful, empowering, and accessible for families facing social disadvantage. Its relational, home-based, and interprofessional approach fostered trust and strengthened parental confidence. These findings illustrate how proportionate, equity-focused interventions can support parents and promote healthy early child development in diverse urban settings.