Objective

Change of healthcare model in normal childbirth, health authorities interest in exploring childbirth expectations of pregnant women, and their cultural and social specificity make relevant the study of these expectations at this moment. The aim is to know what are the childbirth expectations from a sample of Spanish pregnant women and to study the differences between primiparous and multiparous pregnant women expectations.

Methodology

Qualitative study based on an open-ended question about childbirth expectations. Data were collected during 2014-2015 to third trimester pregnant women in La Ribera health area (Alzira, Valencia). Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Sample of 213 pregnant women whose main expectations were to have a fast delivery, with good obstetric outcome, painlessly and with professional support. Expectations regarding normal childbirth protocols accounted for 5.2% of total responses. No statistically significant differences between primiparous and multiparous pregnant women were found.

Conclusions

Knowledge about childbirth expectations is highly relevant because pregnant women measure their satisfaction with childbirth through the fulfillment of these expectations. Helping them to develop realistic expectations will increase their satisfaction. Midwives play an important role through the training they give (maternal education) and through the support during delivery (this is essential for the pregnant women in order to feel themselves protagonist of their delivery).

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