Independent Qualitative Evaluative Study of Calmbirth Antenatal Classes.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal Health
• Childbirth Education

Background:

• High rates of childbirth interventions pose risks to mothers and infants.
• Antenatal education programs are crucial for mitigating these risks.
• The Calmbirth program offers various strategies to support women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively evaluate the acceptability and experiences of participants attending Calmbirth antenatal classes.
• To understand how the Calmbirth program influences women's and partners' perceptions and preparedness for childbirth.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative evaluation was conducted.
• Eighteen individual and/or couple postnatal interviews were performed.
• Data analysis utilized a psycho-emotional conceptual framework.

Main Results:

• Calmbirth courses were found to empower participants, increase health literacy, and provide psychosocial coping strategies.
• Most participants reported positive experiences and acceptability of the classes.
• Some participants experienced a positive reframing of childbirth, while a minority found the classes unhelpful.

Conclusions:

• The Calmbirth program is generally acceptable and positively experienced by most women and their partners.
• The program demonstrates potential in empowering individuals and improving childbirth preparation.
• Further research is recommended to address sociocultural influences on birth outcomes.