The effect of primiparous pregnant women’s preferences for mode of delivery on their fear of childbirth and postpartum period

Abstract

Aim is to examine the relationship between the primiparous pregnant women’s preferences for mode of delivery and their fear of childbirth and postpartum period. This descriptive study’s sample consisted of 211 primiparous pregnant women who applied to a state hospital’s obstetrics and gynecology clinic for a check-up. Data were collected by Personal Information Form and Fear of Childbirth and Postpartum Period Scale (FCPPS) which includes questions for socio-demographic characteristics of individuals and questions related to preferences for mode of delivery. Percentage distribution, t test, Kruskal Wallis analysis, one-way analysis of variance were used in the evaluation of the data, and the level of significance was determined as p < .05. 87.7% of pregnant women have stated that if they have a chance to choose, they will prefer vaginal delivery. FCPPS total mean score was 5.30 ± 1.44 and 49.8% of their fear was found to be at moderate level. There was no statistically significant difference between FCPPS subscale and total mean scores according to pregnant women’s preferences for mode of delivery (p > .05). Most of primiparous women stated their preference for mode of delivery as vaginal delivery. Pregnant women’s fear of childbirth and postpartum period are at moderate level and their preferences for mode of delivery do not affect their fear of childbirth and postpartum period. Taking into consideration pregnant women’s preferences for mode of delivery unless it requires medical indication, supporting their preferences, alleviating their fear of childbirth and postpartum period are extremely important in increasing their satisfaction and adaptation to pregnancy, childbirth and to postpartum period.