Simulation-based childbirth education for Chinese primiparas: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal Health Education
• Psychological Well-being in Pregnancy

Background:

• Fear of childbirth (FOC) is a significant concern for many primiparas.
• Effective interventions are needed to alleviate FOC and enhance childbirth self-efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of simulation-based childbirth education (SBCE) in reducing FOC among Chinese primiparas.
• To assess the impact of SBCE on childbirth self-efficacy and birth outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A trial involving 56 primiparas, with 26 in the SBCE intervention group and 30 in the control group receiving routine prenatal care.
• Utilized validated questionnaires (Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire-A and Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory) to measure FOC and self-efficacy.
• Collected data on birth outcomes including delivery method, labor duration, and Apgar scores.

Main Results:

• The SBCE group showed statistically significant reductions in FOC compared to the control group (P < 0.05).
• Childbirth self-efficacy scores were significantly higher in the intervention group (P < 0.05).
• The cesarean birth rate was lower in the SBCE group (34.61%) versus the control group (46.67%), though not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based childbirth education is an effective and feasible method for reducing fear of childbirth.
• SBCE enhances childbirth self-efficacy and shows potential for improving birth outcomes.
• Integration of SBCE into routine prenatal care is recommended to support primiparas.