761: The impact of childbirth education classes on delivery outcome

Abstract

The aims of antenatal childbirth education classes are broad and encompass outcomes related to pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. Yet, insufficient evidence exists as to whether antenatal education in small classes is effective in regard to obstetric outcomes. The aim of the study was to determine whether participating in childbirth classes is associated with a reduction in delivery complications. This is a retrospective study. The medical records of all women who participated in childbirth classes during their pregnancy and delivered in our institute, between 01.2015-04.2017, (class group), were reviewed. The control group composed of women who delivered in the same time period, but who did not participate in childbirth education classes. The controls were matched in a ratio of 1:2 for maternal age, parity, gestational age (GA) at delivery, and birth-weight. There were no between group difference in maternal age, BMI, years of education, smoking, parity or gravidity. As compared to the control group (n=220), the “class” group (n=110) had lower rate of vacuum extraction (8.2% vs. 16.8%, respectively; p=0.04), and higher rate of normal vaginal delivery (75.4% vs. 64.1%, respectively; p=0.04). In addition, women in “class” group had significantly lower rate of cesarean delivery due to failed induction (3.3% vs. 24.5%, respectively; p=0.02). Participating in childbirth classes could reduce the rates of adverse delivery outcomes. Probably increased knowledge and skills during pregnancy better prepare pregnant mothers and enabling them to cooperate with the health care providers during labor.