Birth plans—Impact on mode of delivery, obstetrical interventions, and birth experience satisfaction: A prospective cohort study

Abstract

Women with and without a birth plan had similar odds of cesarean delivery. Though they had fewer obstetrical interventions, they were less satisfied with their birth experience, compared with women without birth plans. Further research is needed to understand how to improve childbirth-related patient satisfaction.

Women‘s experiences of postterm induction of labor: A systematic review of qualitative studies

“…For example, in the study by Gatward et al, 38 women expressed disappointment that the IOL was not immediately offered or was something that they were free to choose. 38,45,46 Second, the review findings reveal some confusion among the pregnant women as to whether IOL was their decision to make. Some women began to doubt their ability to give birth, 43 which may partly explain their IOL requests.…”

“…Our findings show that room for such an adjustment was not always provided and indicate that induced women may need supported opportunities to re-evaluate their hopes and expectations for the labor process, for example, the opportunity to review their birth plans in collaboration with their clinicians. 38,45,46 Second, the review findings reveal some confusion among the pregnant women as to whether IOL was their decision to make. The guidelines vary in their explicitness about whether women may decide on IOL or not.…”

A qualitative analysis of parturients’ experiences using nitrous oxide for labor analgesia: It is not just about pain relief

“…In addition to analgesia and coping, autonomy and control of decision-making are major determinants of maternal satisfaction with the birth experience. 7,19,20 Although recent studies suggest that birth plans (physical documents intended to promote actualization of parturient preferences) may not enhance, and perhaps even diminish, maternal satisfaction with the birthing experience, 21,22 many women in our study made reference to the role of nitrous role in enabling them to actualize their birth plan. 23 Somewhat surprisingly, several women stated that the use of nitrous oxide helped them to achieve a "natural" childbirth (a finding not previously reported).…”

Women desiring less care than recommended during childbirth: Three years of dedicated clinic

“…However, ample recent literature exists on the motivations of women who choose to go against medical advice in their birth wishes and opt for a home birth in a high-risk pregnancy or even an unassisted childbirth. 17,18 This may be because of higher expectations or because of professionals experiencing an aversion to extensive birth plans. 10,14-16 An important cause of this trauma reported by women is lack or loss of control, interventions being performed routinely without informed consent, and lack of support and communication by maternity care professionals.…”

“…Recent studies concerning birth plans and women's satisfaction show that, despite women with a birth plan undergoing less interventions, they are still less content with the care they received than women without a birth plan. 17,18 This may be because of higher expectations or because of professionals experiencing an aversion to extensive birth plans. 19 Another possible reason for the mismatch between women's desires and professionals' recommendations is the gradual shift in patient agency.…”