Differences in Antenatal Care Policies in England, Finland, and the Netherlands: A Framing analysis

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that good quality antenatal care should strive for both mother and child achieving their best possible health. On a policy level, in Europe these goals are reached with varying approaches. This research offers a fresh look on the underlying assumptions embedded in the ANC policies in three European countries.

A framing analysis was conducted to publicly available ANC policies on uncomplicated pregnancies in Finland, England, and the Netherlands. Analysis was guided by van Hulst and Yanowa and included the following phases: a) Sense-making, b) Selecting, naming, and categorizing and c) Storytelling.

Findings of this study demonstrate how ANC is organized with distinct frames. The Finnish ANC policies emphasized equity in care and instead of focusing on women, the ANC focused on the family. In England the pregnant woman was central, and it is seen as her responsibility to understand the ANC protocols. The ANC in the Netherlands focused on the pregnant woman's pregnancy experience and freedom.

The three studied countries had individual priorities and values guiding ANC provision. Despite each country being in line with the WHO ANC recommendations, areas requiring improvement should not be overlooked.