Perinatal factors related to pregnancy and childbirth satisfaction: a prospective cohort study. (3rd July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lemmens, Stéphanie M. P.; van Montfort, Pim; Meertens, Linda J. E.; Spaanderman, Marc E. A.; Smits, Luc J. M.; de Vries, Raymond G.; Scheepers, Hubertina C. J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics & gynaecology. Volume 42:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 181
• Page End: 189
• Publication Date: 2021-07-03
• Subjects: Satisfaction -- pregnancy -- birth -- anxiety -- integrated care -- unnecessary obstetric care; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Medicine, Psychosomatic -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; 616.08
• DOI: 10.1080/0167482X.2019.1708894
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-482X

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Satisfaction of pregnancy and childbirth is an important quality measure of maternity care. Satisfaction questionnaires generally result in high scores. However, it has been argued that dissatisfaction relies on a different construct. In response to a worldwide call for obstetric care that is more woman-centered, we identified and described the contributors to suboptimal satisfaction with pregnancy and childbirth. Methods: A prospective subcohort of 739 women from a larger cohort (Expect Study I, n = 2614) received a pregnancy and childbirth satisfaction questionnaire. Scores were transformed to a binary outcome whereby a score <100 points corresponded with less satisfied women. We performed a multiple logistic regression analysis to define independent perinatal factors related to suboptimal satisfaction. Results: Decreased perceived personal well-being, antenatal anxiety, and obstetrician-led care during labor were all independently associated with suboptimal pregnancy and childbirth satisfaction. No difference in satisfaction was found between antenatal care led by a midwife or an obstetrician, but midwife-led antenatal care reduced the odds of suboptimal satisfaction compared to women who were transferred to an obstetrician in the antenatal period. Antenatal anxiety was experienced by 25% of all women and is associated with decreased satisfaction scores. Discussion: Screening and treatment of women suffering from anxiety might improve pregnancy and childbirth satisfaction, but further research is necessary. Women's birthing experience may improve by reducing unnecessary secondary obstetric care.