Swedish women’s expectations about antenatal care and change over time – A comparative study of two cohorts of women

Abstract

A decade ago a national cohort of Swedish-speaking women were surveyed about their expectations on antenatal care. Today, antenatal care in Sweden still operates under similar circumstances while changes have occurred in society and the pregnant population. ObjectiveTo compare expectations of antenatal care in pregnant women recruited 2009–2010 to those of pregnant women from a national cohort in 1999–2000. An additional aim was to compare antenatal expectations in women recruited to a clinical trial and subsequently received group based or standard antenatal care. MethodsA cross-sectional pre-study of 700 women recruited to a clinical trial and a historical cohort of 3061 women from a Swedish national survey. Data was collected by a questionnaire in early pregnancy for both cohorts and before the clinical trial started. ResultsIn early pregnancy 79% of the women in the study sample reported a preference for the recommended number of visits, which is slightly higher than in the national cohort (70%). Continuity of the caregiver was still important with 95% vs 97% of the women rated it important to meet the same midwife at subsequent antenatal visits. The content of care rank order showed a change over time with lower expectations in health check-ups and emotional content and higher expectations in information needs, respect and partner involvement. ConclusionWomen approached in early pregnancy had lower expectations about medical and emotional check-ups and parent education but higher expectations regarding information, being met with respect and the involvement of the partner compared to women 10years ago. Continuity of a midwife caregiver was still important and women seem more willing to follow the recommended number of antenatal visits. Clinical implicationsAsking women about their expectations regarding antenatal care could be a means to individualize the care.