Married and Cohabiting Finnish First-Time Parents: Differences in Wellbeing, Social Support and Infant Health

Cohabitation is more common than marriage when couples are expecting their first child in Finland. However, little known about possible differences wellbeing between the two groups. In this study, we examined parental wellbeing, relationship satisfaction, infant health outcomes, and use of social support among cohabiting married first-time parents. Survey data was collected from 903 parents during pregnancy at one month postpartum. Cohabiting had depressive symptoms They were also less satisfied with relationships expressed satisfaction quality they got partner. fathers did not cost-free maternity clinics as often fathers. Our results show well-being that should better acknowledge diversity address different needs types families.