Caseload midwifery for women with fear of birth is a feasible option

Abstract

ObjectiveContinuity with a known midwife might benefit women with fear of birth, but is rare in Sweden. The aim was to test a modified caseload midwifery model of care to provide continuity of caregiver to women with fear of birth. MethodsA feasibility study where women received antenatal and intrapartum care from a known midwife who focused on women’s fear during all antenatal visits. The study was performed in one antenatal clinic in central Sweden and one university hospital labor ward. Data was collected with questionnaires in mid and late pregnancy and two months after birth. The main outcome was fear of childbirth. ResultEight out of ten women received all antenatal and intrapartum care from a known midwife. The majority had a normal vaginal birth with non-pharmacological pain relief. Satisfaction was high and most women reported that their fear of birth alleviated or disappeared. ConclusionOffering a modified caseload midwifery model of care seems to be a feasible option for women with elevated levels of childbirth fear as well as for midwives working in antenatal clinics as it reduces fear of childbirth for most women. Women were satisfied with the model of care and with the care provided.