This study investigated the transition to parenthood in the context of an infant's congenital heart disease. Four couples with a baby suffering from this disease participated in this study. A collective-case study was used. Mothers and fathers were individually interviewed concerning the first moments following the baby's birth and the experience of motherhood and fatherhood. Content analysis indicated that the diagnosis of the baby's heart disease interfered in the parentalization process. The intense maternal concern regarding the baby's survival manifested itself through exclusive dedication to the baby. Fathers were involved with their infants, and also assumed the task of protecting the mothers. It can be concluded that the feelings regarding parenthood focused on the question of the baby's survival.
motherhood; fatherhood; congenital heart malformation; hospitalization
