Factors Associated With Low Childbirth Self-Efficacy for Vaginal Birth in High-Risk Pregnant Women

Low childbirth self-efficacy is a significant indicator of vaginal birth and is closely related to adverse perinatal outcomes.

This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with low childbirth self-efficacy for vaginal birth in high-risk pregnant women.

This descriptive study was conducted between July and December 2022 in Van, Turkey, with a total of 200 participants. Data collection instruments included a Socio-demographic Questionnaire and the Self-Efficacy Regarding Vaginal Birth (SEVB) scale. Independent t-test, chi-square test and multivariable binary logistic regression were employed for data analysis.

The mean age of the participants was 27.74 ± 5.12 years, and the mean gestational age was 33.22 ± 4.28 weeks. Unplanned pregnancy status (p = 0.002), a history of caesarean section (p = 0.013), multiparity (p = 0.001), age (p < 0.01) and gestational age (p = 0.001) were associated with low childbirth self-efficacy for vaginal birth. In multivariate analysis, only age (B: 1111; 95% CI: 1038-1189; p = 0.002) and gestational age (B: 1120; 95% CI: 1034-1214; p = 0.004; and p = 0.005) were independently associated with low childbirth self-efficacy.

Low childbirth self-efficacy for vaginal birth was associated with higher maternal age and gestational ages. Identifying high-risk pregnant women with low childbirth self-efficacy will improve the care process for women and their newborns.