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Informed, supported, confident: A realist evaluation of The Birth Map
Catherine Hobart Bell1, Sue Lukersmith2, Hannah Grace Dahlen3
1Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia; Maternity Choices Australia, Australia.
Women and Birth : Journal of the Australian College of Midwives
|October 12, 2025
Summary
The Birth Map empowers women as decision-makers in childbirth preparation, enhancing communication and confidence. This woman-led approach fosters supported maternal decision-making for a respectful maternity experience.
Area of Science:
- Maternal Health
- Consumer Health Information
- Communication in Healthcare
Background:
- The Birth Map is a woman-led, structured book designed for birth preparation.
- It aims to empower women as active decision-makers in their maternity care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate The Birth Map's effectiveness from women's perspectives.
- To assess its impact across diverse Australian maternity care models.
Main Methods:
- A Realist Evaluation methodology was employed.
- 32 women across Australia participated, providing reflections and interviews.
- Data were coded for context, mechanism, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Women utilized The Birth Map to understand options and communicate needs, viewing themselves as decision-makers.
- Positive reports were noted for communication, experience, and decision-making.
- Barriers included short appointments and dismissive providers, negatively impacting experiences.
Conclusions:
- Supported maternal decision-making is vital for respectful maternity experiences.
- The Birth Map aids sensemaking, confidence, and communication.
- While beneficial, care provider training is recommended to address communication barriers.
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