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Low-cost, self-paced, educational programmes increase birth satisfaction in first-time mothers

Abstract:

Introduction: Birth satisfaction is an important aspect of giving birth. It is a subjective way to quantify how the experience went for new mothers. Aim: This research aimed to assess whether either of two self-directed educational programmes could improve birth satisfaction in New Zealand first-time mothers. Method: One hundred and eighty-two women were recruited and randomly assigned to a skills preparation group, a birth stories booklet group, or a treatment as usual (TAU) group. Findings: One hundred and thirty-seven women completed the three questionnaires relevant for this report (a 75% retention rate). Birth satisfaction was measured soon after birth. It was found that women who received either of the birth preparation programmes (skills or birth stories booklet) had significantly higher birth satisfaction scores. A post-hoc analysis found that, irrespective of programme, having either an induction or a caesarean birth had a negative effect on birth satisfaction, while having birth expectations met had a positive impact on birth satisfaction. Conclusions: Increased preparation for childbirth may be important for birth satisfaction; both induction and caesarean section reduce satisfaction; and expectations around birth might be managed to improve satisfaction. This study found evidence that simple low-cost programmes can improve birth satisfaction.

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birth stories, childbirth, childbirth preparation, labour, satisfaction