2.3 Data analysis
The documents were first analysed by three members of the research team (two in the UK, one in NL) using the safety and personalisation checklist previously described (Supplementary File 1). Relevant data segments were extracted and recorded in excel files. Analytical frameworks were established for each domain through repeated and extensive discussion by the three researchers, and then reviewed by all authors.
The interviews were transcribed and anonymised and then subjected to open coding supported by the MAXQDA software package (v18.2.5) by two members of the research team (one UK, one NL). Open coding was conducted in the native language by English or Dutch speaking researchers. Codes were grouped together into categories across the open coding for each country to develop a framework through discussion.
The documentary and interview analytical frameworks were interpreted together within each domain to explore relationships within and between the categories. This led to explanation of the policy drivers in both countries. Differences in opinion in the research team were resolved with mutual agreement. The research team consisted of nine women from a range of academic and clinical backgrounds including midwifery, psychology, and sociology.

3. Findings

In the first paragraph we present the similarities and differences in maternity care policy between the UK and NL during the COVID-19 pandemic for each of the chosen domains. This paragraph has a documentary focus. The second paragraph describes the policy drivers behind these similarities and differences and is more interview-based.