New mother's opinions on prenatal education : how useful are prenatal classes in assisting first-time mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and the early postnatal period? / by Katarina A. Edwards.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether prenatal education programs are
useful in assisting women in pregnancy, childbirth and the early postnatal period. A selfselected
sample of seven women who had attended the Douglas College prenatal series
were interviewed in their homes 2-3 weeks postnatal. Utilizing semi-structured
interviews the participants were asked a series of six questions pertaining to the
educational experience and subsequent birth event. The results were very positive as all
women indicated that the prenatal classes were helpful in assisting them through
pregnancy and childbirth. Women reported that the labour and childbirth preparation
reduced their anxiety and fostered feelings of confidence in progressing through the
labour and birth of their baby. There was consensus however, that more time should be
dedicated to providing information and support regarding the early postnatal period,
breastfeeding and basic infant care. The women cited feelings of vulnerability and
lacking confidence in caring for themselves and their babies in the first weeks at home. It
was unclear whether this was a consequence ofprogram content or if learner readiness
played a role in acquisition of this knowledge. It was recommended that Douglas College
continue to utilize the current curriculum with the addition of an extra class specifically
dedicated to the issues pertaining to the early postnatal period. Implications for prenatal
education and future research are provided.
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- Retrospective theses [1604]