2020/03/16 by Striebich, Sabine, Ayerle, Gertrud M.
Medicine · #610 Medical sciences #Angst vor der Geburt #Hebamme #Medicine #Schwangerschaft #Versorgungswünsche #clinical maternity care #fear of childbirth #klinische Geburtshilfe #midwife #patient preferences #pregnancy
paper · doi:10.3205/zhwi000015
Background: Pregnant women with severe fear of childbirth (FOC)/tocophobia are a vulnerable group, knowledge is therefore required as to how maternity care can support a positive pregnancy and birth experience. This study explores the development of FOC and which experiences and social interactions are significant in this regard. Methods: Twelve pregnant women with FOC took part in problem-centred interviews. The reconstructive analysis, conducted according to Bohnsack’s Documentary Method, aimed at reconstructing collective frames of orientation (genesis of habitus). Results: Pregnant women with FOC lack the opportunity to talk about labour and birth in an affirming way in either the private or professional setting. They are upset by reports of obstetrical emergencies and complications. They wish for a midwife who is competent in dealing with their fear, who provides helpful information about labour and birth as well as supportive care during labour. Conclusion: Midwives need specific knowledge to provide didactically effective care for pregnant women with FOC. A valid German assessment tool is needed to identify FOC early in pregnancy. An analysis focusing on socio-genesis could be an appropriate future research topic to deepen the current knowledge base.