An evaluation of consumer perspectives of childbirth and parenting education

As part of a study of childbirth and parenting education in the Australian Capital Territory (O'Meara, 1993a; 1993b) an evaluation of clients' views of the service was undertaken. The evaluation sought to identify indicators of effectiveness and needs. Two independent groups (current and past users, n = 207) were surveyed using an original questionnaire based on predisposing, reinforcing and enabling factors for human behaviour (Green's PRECEDE model). The data were compared and analysed using the related t-test for indicative differences in perceptions of the two groups. Indicative differences that were statistically significant were compared on variables representing users' age, parity and preferred mode of childbirth education (public or private). No evidence was found of significant differences in attitudes, beliefs and values before and after birth attributable to childbirth education. However, the health skills, confidence and emotional preparation for the birth, and the extent of participation in the learning process did not fully measure up to users' expectations. Consumers expect professionalism in the provision of services, with course content specifically tailored to their learning needs, taking into account age and previous experience of childbirth. A comprehensive curriculum is suggested covering all stages of the childbirth process from prepregnancy to parenting.