Turkish version of the childbirth readiness scale: validity and reliability study

Childbirth readiness is a key aspect of antenatal care, reducing birth-related fears and enhancing maternal well-being. Given the global decline in fertility rates and the psychological impact of childbirth, assessing Childbirth Readiness levels with reliable measurement tools is to support expectant mothers.

This study aimed to adapt the Childbirth Readiness Scale into Turkish and evaluate its psychometric properties among pregnant women in the third trimester.

This methodological study was conducted between February and July 2023 in the obstetric clinics of a public hospital in eastern Türkiye. A total of 626 pregnant women participated in the study, with 321 assigned to Sample I for Exploratory Factor Analysis and 305 to Sample II for Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form and Childbirth Readiness Scale. Validity and reliability analyses were conducted.

The scale consists of four subscales and 18 items, explaining 61.5% of the total variance. The confirmatory factor analysis model showed that the 4-factor model (Self-management, Information literacy, Birth confidence, and Birth plan) fit the data well. It was found that the total Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the entire scale and the 4 factors were 0.87 and 0.67-0.82.

The Turkish version of the Childbirth Readiness Scale is a valid and reliable tool for assessing childbirth readiness among pregnant women in the third trimester. The scale may help identify areas requiring support and guide interventions to improve childbirth preparation.