Evaluation of an Information Pamphlet for Women Considering Epidural Analgesia in Labour

This study sought to assess change in knowledge and preference for epidural use associated with use of an information pamphlet and to explore women's decision-making and information needs regarding pain relief in labour.

Six focus groups with women who were pregnant or had given birth during the past 12 months were conducted in three northern communities in British Columbia. Following completion of a 10-item knowledge pretest, women were randomly assigned to read either a short version or a detailed version of the pamphlet and then complete a post-test. After reading the alternate pamphlet they participated in a moderated discussion. Pretest and post-test knowledge scores were compared, and a thematic analysis of focus group data was conducted.

Knowledge scores increased (2.12 points out of a possible total of 10; standard deviation 2.38; 95% CI 1.38 to 2.87). There was no difference in knowledge change or epidural preferences according to which version participants read first. Women preferred the detailed version and indicated that its information was more balanced. Four themes related to decision-making and information needs arose from the focus groups: making an informed choice, being open-minded, wanting comprehensive information, and experiencing pressure to have/not have an epidural.

An illustrated information pamphlet can significantly increase women's knowledge of benefits and risks of epidural analgesia, but it is not associated with change of preference. Women prefer to receive comprehensive information prenatally to support informed choices in labour.