Childbirth Experience Research Articles

Exploring Severe Fear of Childbirth in China: An In-depth Systematic Review of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Interventions.

Fear of childbirth (FOC) is a psychological symptom, prevalent among pregnant women, which negatively impacts women's health and well-being. The objective of this study is to analyze existing literature regarding pregnant women in China, evaluating the prevalence, risk elements, and interventions to alleviate severe childbirth fear. A comprehensive search was done across nine bibliographic databases to retrieve published research from their earliest records to August 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal instruments were employed to evaluate the quality of each article. Data were independently extracted by pairs of reviewers and synthesized through a narrative analysis. The review comprised ten studies: seven cross-sectional studies and three randomized controlled trials. The results revealed varied prevalence rates of FOC. Risk factors identified were categorized into three main groups: sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy and birth-related aspects, and mood-related aspects. Identified interventions included relaxation therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Studies are scarce concerning FOC among Chinese pregnant women. However, existing research indicates that FOC remains prevalent within the population. Moreover, these studies reveal that risk factors for this fear are multifaceted, and limited intervention approaches are available. This study highlights the urgent need for further research to deepen the understanding of FOC among Chinese women and develop more comprehensive and tailored interventions to improve the overall maternal health and childbirth experiences in China.

Traumatic Childbirth Experiences and their Association with Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review

Traumatic Childbirth Experiences and their Association with Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review

Fear of childbirth among pregnant women in hospital for delivery and its impact on birth outcomes and lactation initiation: a prospective longitudinal study in Wuhan

BackgroundFear of childbirth (FOC) has been shown to adversely affect the physical and mental health of pregnant women. However, most of the previous studies have explored only certain factors influencing FOC and have not consistently followed birth outcomes and lactation initiation. This study aimed to understand the incidence of FOC antenatally among pregnant women, analyse the factors influencing this fear, investigate the relationship between generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and FOC, and explore the influence of this fear on birth outcomes and lactation initiation.MethodsBetween August and November 2018, 237 pregnant women hospitalised for delivery in Wuhan were selected. The Chinese version of the Childbirth Attitudes Questionnaire (CAQ) was used to measure the level of FOC before delivery, A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect general demographic and obstetric information, while the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) was utilised to assess anxiety status. Additionally, information on birth outcomes, including the length of each stage of labour, and lactation initiation, was collected by consulting the electronic medical record system and through telephonic follow-up on postpartum days 5–7.ResultsThe incidence of FOC was 73.8%, and 4.2% of women were diagnosed with severe FOC. GAD is positively associated with FOC. Maternal age, maternity insurance, expected labour pain score, sensitivity to pain, and GAD were the main factors influencing FOC (R²=0.314). A significant difference was found in the length of the second stage of labour in primiparas with different levels of FOC (F = 2.815, P < 0.05); the higher the level of FOC, the greater the length of the second stage of labour. No significant differences were noted between the different levels of FOC and delayed initiation of lactation, gestational age and birth weight, or the Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min after birth (P > 0.05).ConclusionsFOC is highly prevalent among pregnant women hospitalised for delivery, influenced by multiple factors, and has a negative impact on birth outcomes and lactation initiation. To enhance the childbirth experience and reduce FOC, it is recommended to introduce standardised screening and interventions for FOC.

Assessment of childbirth experience over time-A prospective cohort study.

A woman's childbirth experience is multifaceted and has a great impact on not only the woman, but also the family's health and well-being. Changes in childbirth experience over time have been evaluated with a variety of instruments, at different time points, and with inconsistent findings. In Sweden, the rating of birth experience is routinely collected after birth, but it is still unknown which time point is preferred from a clinical perspective. The primary aim was to investigate changes in childbirth experience over time from childbirth to 6 months postpartum, assessed by both a single and a multi-item instrument. A secondary aim was to test the correlation between these instruments. In a prospective cohort study, 320 women were recruited from two Swedish hospitals. Study participants completed a survey at the maternity ward after giving birth, and again three and 6 months postpartum, rating their overall childbirth experience on a single item 10-point numeric rating scale (NRS) and a multi-item instrument, the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire 2 (CEQ2), encompassing four known dimensions of childbirth: Perceived safety, Own capacity, Participation and Professional support. Changes in childbirth experience (NRS and CEQ2) over time were analyzed using the Friedman test. NRS ratings were analyzed in relation to CEQ2 dimensions with Spearman's correlation. Overall childbirth experience rated using NRS did not change over time. The total CEQ2 score decreased significantly from childbirth to 6 months postpartum (p < 0.001). This change was driven by decreased scoring of the domains Participation and Professional support. The correlations between NRS and CEQ scores were consistent over time, with a moderate to weak correlation of NRS with Participation and Professional support. Women perceive their birthing experience more negatively over time when assessed using the CEQ2 questionnaire, but this was not captured by a single-item question assessing overall childbirth experience.

Investigating the effect of the digital storytelling of peers’ childbirth experiences on the perception and mode of childbirth: a quasi-experimental study

Background and aimTelling stories about giving birth vaginally can generate deeper understandings, potentially resulting in fewer requests to birth via cesarean section without medical reason. We aimed to determine the impact of the digital storytelling of peers’ childbirth experiences on the perception and mode of childbirth in those birthing for the first time.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study invited those pregnant and birthing for the first time from four comprehensive health centers to participate. Using a simple randomizing method, two centers were assigned to the control group and two centers were assigned to the intervention group. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 65 eligible participants from each center group. The six steps of the ASPIRE model were used to guide the development of the intervention. Five story-telling videos were sent weekly to participants in the intervention group to watch between the 32nd and 36th weeks of pregnancy. After giving birth, data were collected via telephone from those in both the control and intervention groups in relation to their mode of childbirth as a primary outcome. Furthermore, 7 to 21 days after giving birth, all participants completed the Childbirth Perception Scale as a primary outcome.ResultsOur subgroup analysis confirmed a statistically significant difference between both the intervention and control groups (P = 0.001), whereby those who gave birth vaginally in the intervention group indicated more positive perceptions of childbirth. Contrariwise, no significant difference was identified between the intervention and control groups in terms of perception of childbirth score in participants who gave birth via emergency cesarean section (P = 0.45). In all included participants, that is, those who experienced vaginal childbirth and those who experienced emergency cesarean section, there was no significant difference identified between the intervention and control groups in terms of perception of childbirth score (P = 0.088).ConclusionThe digital storytelling of peers’ childbirth experiences is effective in cultivating more positive perceptions in relation to the experience of childbirth, specifically among those who experience childbirth vaginally. Considering the above, digital storytelling may be implemented as a useful tool in childbirth preparation, though the need for alternative interventions remains in pursuit of lowering the number of unnecessary births via cesarean section conducted overall.

The comparison of birth plan expectations and birth afterthought of Iranian primiparous women: A longitudinal comparative study.

The comparison of birth plan expectations and birth afterthought of Iranian primiparous women: A longitudinal comparative study.

Assessing Developmentally Supportive Care in Neonatal Nursing in China.

Developmentally supportive care (DSC) is a pivotal care model for preterm infants, with significant implications for their long-term health and well-being. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of DSC practices among neonatal nursing staff in a hospital in China, thereby informing strategies to enhance clinical nursing interventions and training. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among neonatal nurses at our institution from August 1 to August 16, 2023. Participants provided demographic data, and their DSC practices were evaluated using a validated self-rating scale. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with DSC behaviors. During the survey period, data were collected from 128 neonatal nurses. Analysis of the data revealed DSC scale behavior scores ranging from 44 to 92, with a mean (SD) of 72.95 (15.34). The mean (SD) score for individual items was 1.56 (0.52). The most highly implemented dimension of DSC involved interventions to reduce detrimental environmental stimuli in the neonatal intensive care unit. The lowest scores were associated with observing the suggestive behavior of premature infants and implementing family-centered care. Correlational analysis demonstrated significant associations between DSC scores and several variables, including marital status (r = 0.560), childbirth experience (r = 0.422), years working on the neonatal unit (r = 0.406), and prior DSC training (r = 0.584) (all P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis confirmed these factors as significant predictors of DSC behavior scores (all P < 0.05). The current level of DSC behavior among neonatal nurses appears to be suboptimal and is influenced by personal marital status, childbirth experience, tenure on the neonatal unit, and exposure to DSC training. It is imperative for hospital administrators to prioritize and foster the implementation of DSC measures by neonatal nurses in the clinical setting by developing targeted education programs and providing ongoing support.

Childbirth; A traumatic event for women in Pakistan

To the editor, Childbirth is a beautiful experience that millions of women go through worldwide. A woman goes through a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the pregnancy, and one of the most recurring thoughts in a mother’s mind is the event of labour and delivery. Although many have the privilege of having a near-perfect experience, this is not true for many women in Pakistan. Despite being the most cost-effective, only 15% of women choose government setups, most prefer private providers, which can be more expensive, or opt for midwives or untrained staff which although affordable, can have dire consequences [1]. Research indicates that approximately 1.5% of women may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a consequence of their childbirth experience [2]. Although PTSD can be due to several reasons, many women report a lack of empathy from the healthcare workers, which can directly or indirectly lead to PTSD. The process of giving birth can be very traumatizing in some parts of the world, especially in government hospitals in 3rd world countries like Pakistan. Abuse during childbirth can be of any nature, ranging from physical, verbal, or emotional abuse leading up to disrespect, neglect, or coercion. According to a study conducted across the Sindh province in Pakistan, approximately 97% of women reported experiencing at least one form of disrespectful and abusive behaviour during childbirth [3]. Another study found that poorer women, those less educated on birth preparedness and postnatal care, and those who lacked social support were more vulnerable to mistreatment during childbirth [4]. All the abuse leaves the mother traumatized, which can result in severe mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis. A scoping review concluded that women who reported at least one type of disrespect and abuse were 1.6 times more likely to experience postpartum depression [5]. This is one of the many reasons why women in Pakistan don't seek out proper maternal care. To address the issue, medical and nursing colleges should have a module on medical ethics which should focus on the importance of informed consent, respect for autonomy, and cultural sensitivity. A robust feedback system should be established to allow patients to report complaints. Public awareness campaigns should be held, and regular audits should be conducted in hospitals to find out the gaps in quality healthcare. Lastly, policies should be made to make public healthcare setups more reliable and accessible to patients.

Women's levels of birth satisfaction in the Greek Cypriot context.

Women's levels of birth satisfaction in the Greek Cypriot context.

Psychological birth trauma and its related factors, and providing strategies for prevention of psychological birth trauma: protocol for an explanatory sequential mixed-method study

BackgroundChildbirth can have psychological, social and emotional effects on women and their families. Psychological birth trauma (PBT) is defined as the emotional distress and mental health challenges resulting from negative or distressing experiences during the childbirth process. Labour management plays an important role in the health of women and children. Consequently, the study aims to assess the status of PBT among Iranian women, identify factors influencing it and suggest effective preventive strategies.Methods and analysisThis study is a mixed-method research with an explanatory sequential approach. The first phase is quantitative and cross-sectional, involving 300 postpartum women visiting health centres in Tabriz-Iran. In this phase, cluster sampling will be used, and data will be collected using the following questionnaires: Sociodemographic and Obstetric Characteristics, Birth Trauma Scale, PTSD Symptom Scale 1, Perceived Quality of Care Scale, Childbirth Experience Questionnaire version 2.0, Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale, Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale Research Short-Form and the questionnaire on the desire for subsequent pregnancy. The second phase is qualitative, and participants will be selected based on the results of the quantitative phase and extreme cases, using purposive sampling. Data analysis will be performed using qualitative content analysis with a conventional approach. Qualitative data will be collected through in-depth and semi-structured individual interviews with open-ended questions. In the third phase, strategies to prevent childbirth psychological trauma will be designed by integrating the results of the quantitative and qualitative studies, reviewing the literature and gathering expert opinions using a modified Delphi study. Examining PBT and its influencing factors can provide culturally relevant, evidence-based strategies. These strategies can be effective in improving the quality of care for women during childbirth.Ethics and disseminationThis study has received approval from the Ethics Committee of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Tabriz, Iran (code number: IR.TBZMED.REC.1402.945). All participants will provide written informed consent before taking part in the study. The outcomes will be shared through articles published in journals, presentations at medical conferences, the validation of a reliable scale for assessing the level of PBT in postpartum women, and the provision of strategies to prevent childbirth psychological trauma. These resources will be valuable for policymakers and healthcare providers.

Women's Childbirth Experiences in the WILL Randomised Trial (When to Induce Labour to Limit Risk in Pregnancy Hypertension): A Mixed Methods Analysis.

To compare childbirth satisfaction in women with chronic or gestational hypertension, randomised to 'planned early term birth at 38+0-3 weeks' gestation' (intervention) or 'usual care at term' (control). Randomised trial. Forty-two consultant-led maternity units, United Kingdom. 357/403 women randomised completed the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ). Mixed-methods analysis of the 22-item CEQ, assessing: 'Own capacity', 'Professional support', 'Perceived safety' and 'Participation'. Directed content analysis sorted free-text comments into themes covered by the CEQ and two additional themes. CEQ scores overall and by domain. In intervention (vs. control) groups, the CEQ was completed by 177/202, 88.1% (vs. 180/202, 89.1%) participants, and 378 free-text comments were made by 93/177, 52.5% (vs. 98/180, 54.4%) participants. There was no significant difference in CEQ scores overall (3.1 ± 0.4 vs. 3.1 ± 0.4, respectively) or by domain ('Own capacity' [2.8 ± 0.5 vs. 2.7 ± 0.5, respectively]; 'Professional support' [3.7 ± 0.5 vs. 3.7 ± 0.6, respectively]; 'Perceived safety' [3.2 ± 0.6 vs. 3.1 ± 0.6, respectively]; and 'Participation' [2.6 ± 0.7 vs. 2.7 ± 0.6]). Most comments were positive (222/378, 58.7%), and about 'Relational care and care interactions' (CEQ 'Professional support'). Neither the number nor positivity of comments appeared to differ between groups. For women with chronic or gestational hypertension who remain well at term, we found no difference in childbirth experience between women randomised to planned early term birth versus usual care at term. Shared decisions about timing of birth may be more influenced by differences in clinical outcomes and costs. ISRCTN: 77258279.

Midwifery care attachments: shaping childbirth agency through care techniques

Midwifery care has been shown to effectively enhance birth outcomes and improve childbirth experiences. It has, however, not yet been sufficiently articulated how exactly. This study explores how trustful and empowering relationships are crafted through midwifery birthing care techniques. To do so, it builds on insights derived from feminist science and technology studies’ engagements with caring in terms of empirical ethics, namely as situated practices of “doing good”. Using reflexive thematic analysis, I examine semi-structured interviews with midwives alongside ethnographic fieldwork conducted across various midwifery care settings in Germany. Setting two birthing stories in dialogue, I illustrate how bodies-in-labor emerge through collective, active, persistent and adaptive engagements with these dynamic entities in midwifery practice to make physiological childbirth happen. Specifically, I argue that through the midwifery care techniques of “spooning” and “labor and birth positioning” midwifery birthing care attachments are fostered. I conceptualize these attachments as co-responsive, active-passive commitments aimed at sustaining endurable or even pleasurable relationships between embodied selves and bodies-in-labor. Investigating situated midwifery care techniques enables a detailed understanding of their specific qualities in particular childbirth situations, extending conventional notions of being-with and non-intervention. This approach allows to articulate, critically engage with, and strengthen midwifery-specific childbirth care practices.

Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of Childbirth Experience Questionnaire 2.0

BackgroundChildbirth experience is a key determinant of maternal psychological well-being, and WHO emphasize promoting positive birth experiences. The Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) is a widely used measure of women’s perceptions of labor and delivery. An improved version of this instrument, the CEQ 2.0, has not yet been adapted or psychometrically validated for use in mainland China. This study aimed to validate a Mainland version of CEQ 2.0 (CEQ 2.0-M) among Chinese postpartum women.MethodsA three-stage cross-sectional psychometric study was conducted among 700 postpartum women recruited from a tertiary hospital in mainland China (350 for EFA, 350 for CFA). Item analysis and dimensional refinement were applied to revise the original 25-item Chinese CEQ 2.0 before factor analyses. Structural validity was evaluated using parallel analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was assessed via Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s ω, and validity evidence included convergent, discriminant, concurrent, and known-group analyses.ResultsIn Stage 1, item analysis and theoretical review led to the refinement of the original Chinese CEQ 2.0, resulting in a four-factor version with improved conceptual clarity. In Stage 2, exploratory factor analysis supported this four-factor structure, explaining 53.2% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis in Stage 3 indicated acceptable model fit (χ2/df = 2.590; AGFI = 0.892; GFI = 0.927; CFI = 0.949; TLI = 0.934 and RMSEA = 0.068). Internal consistency was satisfactory, with Cronbach’s α = 0.65–0.91 and McDonald’s ω = 0.65–0.91 across subscales, and 0.84 and 0.80 respectively for the total scale. Evidence of convergent, discriminant, concurrent, and known-group validity further supported the scale’s psychometric robustness.ConclusionsThe CEQ 2.0-M shows satisfactory psychometric properties and offers a valid, reliable instrument for assessing childbirth experiences among Chinese postpartum women. Its concise structure and established construct validity support its use in both clinical practice and research, particularly in developing countries seeking culturally appropriate tools for perinatal care evaluation.

Maternal satisfaction and birth experiences after elective induction vs. spontaneous onset in late-term pregnancy: a register-based study

BackgroundEarlier studies highlight that a positive birth experience enhances both short-term recovery and long-term maternal well-being. However, the factors influencing this experience are complex and not yet fully understood. We aimed to investigate the influence of labour commencement method on late-term pregnant women’s satisfaction with care and the birth experience, and to determine whether women’s perception of their birth experience changes over time.MethodsIn this register-based retrospective cohort study, we included pregnant women in late term (≥ 41 + 0 to < 42 + 0) who gave birth in Sweden during 2020–2021. Eligible women were classified into two groups: spontaneous onset of labour (SOL) and induced onset of labour (IOL). Women’s satisfaction with care at birth and the childbirth experience at 8 weeks and 1 year postpartum were measured with a visual analogue scale, where 0 indicates “very unsatisfied” and 10 “very satisfied”.ResultsSatisfaction with care at the time of discharge from the hospital was significantly different between the IOL and SOL groups, with mean scores of 6.53 ± 3.34 and 6.97 ± 3.34, respectively (P = 0.007). Furthermore, the IOL group reported a less positive birth experience at 8 weeks (7.15 ± 2.37 and 7.74 ± 2.17, respectively, P = 0.004) and 1 year postpartum (6.87 ± 2.40 and 7.53 ± 2.15, respectively, P = 0.002) compared to the SOL group. Both groups experienced a decline in birth experience positivity from 8 weeks to 1 year postpartum (P < 0.001 in both groups). Common factors influencing satisfaction with care and birth experience included parity, heavy bleeding during labour, and the mode of delivery.ConclusionSatisfaction with care during labour and women’s childbirth experiences differed between the SOL and IOL groups, indicating a relationship between labour commencement method and satisfaction scores. Women in the SOL group were more satisfied with care at birth and reported a more positive birth experience at both 8 weeks and 1 year postpartum compared to the IOL group. Over time, women’s childbirth experience scores in both groups may change, becoming less positive 1 year after birth compared to 8 weeks postpartum.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding in Neurosurgery: A Pilot Cross-Sectional Study.

There has been an increase in the recruitment of women into neurosurgery. Despite this, there is limited research on their childbearing experiences. This study explores the experiences and challenges of women in neurosurgery with a focus on preterm delivery and breastfeeding. We conducted a cross-sectional survey (August-December 2023) of neurosurgery residents and faculty at American College of Graduate Medical Education-accredited programs collecting data on demographics, obstetric history, and breastfeeding experiences. Only participants who had themselves been pregnant were included in this analysis. The primary outcome was preterm delivery, while secondary outcomes were Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admission and length of breastfeeding. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed with statistical significance set at a P-value <.05. There were 49 participants who were eligible for this subanalysis. The mean age at first pregnancy was 32 years. Most (95.8%) intended to breastfeed for an average of 10.6 months with 54.3% reporting a gap between desired and achieved breastfeeding length. The mean achieved breastfeeding length was 8.5 months (± 6.02). Preterm delivery was significantly associated with requiring Neonatal Intensive Care Unit care (P = .019). The number of operative hours per week during the third trimester was not associated with preterm delivery (P = .401). On multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.11 95% CI: 1.011-1.22; P = .029) and having multiple children (OR: 11.28 95% CI: 1.2-104, P .033) were significantly associated with preterm delivery. With every 5-year increase in age, there is a 71% increased odd of preterm delivery (OR: 1.7, 95% CI 1.05-2.79). Our study shows a higher age at first pregnancy for women in neurosurgery and that an increase in age is associated with increased risk of preterm delivery. Larger studies are needed to identify and address barriers to childbearing in neurosurgery.

The Relationship of Respectful Midwifery Care (RMC) Evaluation to Satisfaction of Midwifery Services from the Mother's Perspective in the North Jakarta Region

Background: The labor process represents a critical phase in ensuring maternal and neonatal safety. The quality of care provided by midwives during this period plays a vital role in determining health outcomes for both mothers and newborns. To achieve optimal care, midwives are required to possess competencies in line with the standards recommended by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), including the implementation of Respectful Midwifery Care (RMC). The concept of RMC has also been promoted by the Indonesian Midwives Association (IBI) as an essential component of quality midwifery services. However, empirical evidence on the implementation of RMC in Indonesia remains limited. This gap highlights the need to explore women’s perspectives on the application of RMC and its association with maternal satisfaction. Objective: This study aims to assess the implementation of Respectful Midwifery Care (RMC) from the perspective of mothers receiving delivery care by midwives and to examine its relationship with maternal satisfaction in midwifery services. Methods: This research employed a quantitative approach using a cross-sectional design. The study involved 111 mothers who underwent physiological childbirth assisted by midwives at Level I Health Facilities in North Jakarta, with no maternal or neonatal complications or emergencies. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test to determine the relationship between RMC and maternal satisfaction. Results: The findings showed that 80.2% of midwives were perceived to have implemented RMC based on the mothers’ evaluations. A statistically significant association was found between the implementation of RMC and maternal satisfaction with midwifery services in North Jakarta (p = 0.000), with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 18.909. Conclusion: The implementation of Respectful Midwifery Care significantly influences maternal satisfaction with midwifery services. Mothers assisted by midwives who implement RMC are 18 times more likely to report satisfaction with their childbirth experience. The adoption of the RMC approach not only enhances maternal satisfaction but also contributes to the overall improvement of the quality of midwifery care. Keywords: respectful midwifery care; maternal satisfaction; midwifery services; quality of care

The forgotten gender - How do fathers experience an unforeseen caesarean section of their partner? An exploratory study

This exploratory case-control study investigated the psychological well-being of expectant fathers before, during, and after an emergency cesarean section. The aim was to determine whether these men are at a higher risk of post-traumatic stress compared to men undergoing a secondary cesarean section and what affective experiences they report retrospectively.Fathers (secondary cesarean [N=103] vs. emergency cesarean [N=52]) were retrospectively surveyed using a questionnaire developed by the Department of Medical Psychology and the Women's Clinic of the University Hospital of Ulm. The study focused on unplanned cesarean sections during the period from January 1, 2017, to June 30, 2019. The questionnaire consisted of two sections: Section A captured sociodemographic, biographic, medical, and psychometric characteristics. Section B focused on the experience of childbirth and afterward and integrated the "Positive and Negative Affect Schedule" (PANAS) and the Posttraumatic Stress Checklist 5 (PCL-5).During an emergency cesarean, fathers more frequently expressed fear for the life of their partner and child. The PANAS analysis showed that fathers in the emergency cesarean group significantly more often experienced negative emotions such as fear and restlessness. They also had higher PCL-5 scores, however, only three fathers from the emergency cesarean group and one father from the control group met the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder. Fathers during an emergency cesarean felt less well cared for compared to the control group and rated the information about the possibility of an emergency cesarean as insufficient. After an emergency cesarean, psychological support was more often recommended but was not utilized. The majority of fathers desired a follow-up conversation with the treatment team. About one-fifth sought additional help after the birth, mostly from family or a midwife.The results of the retrospective study suggest that men experience higher psychological stress during an emergency cesarean compared to a secondary cesarean. Many fathers in the emergency group felt inadequately prepared. A postoperative discussion with the team is desired by the fathers and can be helpful in processing an emergency intervention.Expectant fathers should be thoroughly informed about potential complications before birth. Staff should be trained to also support the fathers during a emergency cesarean.

PENINGKATAN KESIAPAN PERSALINAN MELALUI INOVASI KEBIDANAN: EDUKASI DAN PRAKTIK PIJAT ENDORFIN, BIRTH BALL, DAN COUNTERPRESSURE BAGI IBU HAMIL DI PUSKESMAS MANONJAYA

Mothers in labor when they feel contractions, complain of pain, if the pain is felt to have exceeded the threshold of their ability to withstand pain, then the mother will experience stress that affects the mother's psychology. Especially in mothers with the first experience of childbirth, longer pain and lack of information in pregnant women cause more pain suggestions, excessive anxiety and the risk of psychological experiences that can disturb the mother during the delivery process. One of the efforts to reduce labor pain by non-pharmacological means is Masase Conterpresure and birth ball, by applying hand pressure to soft tissues, usually muscles, tendons or ligaments, without causing movement or change in joint position to relieve pain, produce relaxation and/or improve the situation. After complementary education and exercises, mothers can prepare mothers for childbirth by applying innovative technology of endorphin, birthball and counterpressure massage to reduce labor pain.

The role of fear of childbirth and birth experiences in observed maternal parenting behaviour

ABSTRACT Background Fear of childbirth and negative birth experiences have suggested to been associated with parenting behaviour and thereby indirectly with child outcomes. The current study contributes to this knowledge by investigating fear of childbirth and birth experience as predictors of observed parenting behaviour. Methods We longitudinally tested the role of fear of childbirth and birth experiences in two dimensions of observed parenting behaviour: maternal sensitivity and disruptive maternal behaviour. We built two hierarchical regression models: maternal sensitivity as the dependent variable in the first model and disruptive maternal behaviour in the second model. In both models, fear of childbirth was added as an independent variable in the first step and birth experience in the second step. Results Results of the hierarchical regressions and post-hoc equivalence testing suggested that fear of childbirth may not predict mothers’ postnatal parenting behaviour. Yet, the role of birth experience in maternal parenting behaviour remained unclear, as the results of hierarchical regression were non-significant, but equivalence testing resulted in inconclusive results Conclusion Fear of childbirth and negative birth experience may not necessarily stand in the way of sensitive parenting.

The Relationship Between Maternal Pain Levels and Satisfaction During Labor Among Women Giving Birth in Erbil, 2024-2025

Background and Aim: Pain and satisfaction during labor are key indicators of the quality of maternal care. In Erbil, Iraq, there is limited research exploring how maternal pain levels influence satisfaction with childbirth. This study aimed to determine the relationship between maternal pain and satisfaction during labor among women giving birth in Erbil. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Maternity Teaching Hospital in Erbil from December 1st, 2024, to February 15th, 2025, using a convenience sampling method. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: the first part collected demographic data, the second part assessed maternal satisfaction during labor and the third part measured pain using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Data were analyzed using Stata version 12 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX). Pearson correlation analyses and multiple linear regression were conducted to assess the correlations between maternal pain, satisfaction and demographic variables. A p-value of less than 0.001 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 140 women participated in the study. The mean maternal pain score was 7.41±2.52, indicating a severe level of pain, while the mean satisfaction score was 12.36±6.54, reflecting a neutral level of satisfaction. Pearson correlation analysis showed a strong negative correlation between maternal pain and satisfaction (r = -0.96, p&lt;0.001), suggesting that higher pain was associated with lower satisfaction. Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that satisfaction was a significant predictor of maternal pain (B = -0.37, p&lt;0.001), whereas demographic variables such as age, education, occupation, residential area, smoking, BMI and physical activity during pregnancy were not statistically significant predictors. Conclusions: There was a strong negative correlation between maternal pain and satisfaction during labor, indicating that increased pain significantly reduced satisfaction levels. It is recommended that policymakers and healthcare providers implement effective pain management strategies and enhance supportive care during labor to improve maternal satisfaction and overall childbirth experiences.