The role of midwives with reference to preparation for parenthood: A case study

Abstract

This dissertation is predominately a review of literature regarding the midwives' role in preparation for parenthood. The literature is reviewed to assess the evolution, purpose and aims and effectiveness of antenatal education. Funfamental issues regarding how education in general can serve to oppress or liberate are examined along with the purpose and aims specific to antenatal education. The study concludes that there are many differing aims of antenatal education, often causing a lack of clarity for the midwives who deliver this education.This dissertation examines studies on measures, benefits and effectiveness and finds that the results of these stdies are often inconclusive and sometimes contradictory. A small scale primary study using postal questionnaires informs the dissertation. Qiestionnaires were sent to all mothers who delivered during a two week period three months and six months prior to receiving the questionnaire.Questionnaires were also given to all practising midwives working in the same area. The questionnaires aimed to identify whether clients' expressed needs were matched with midwives' perceptions of client needs. An analysis of the results shows that both midwives and clients agree that the subjects of labour and delivery and pain relief during labour are the most important subjects to discuss during antenatal education. In the study both clients and midwives prefer antenatal education to be delivered on a one-to-one basis. Midwives recognise a need for increased education for themselves to develop their teaching skills with regular updates. It was found that most midwives considered that their training was not sufficicent for this role. The dissertation recommends that antenatal education should serve to liberate parents and empower women, enabling them to take contrl and make informed choice during the process of childbirth. It advocates that midwives should be supported and helped to take on this role. The need to explore alternative methods of delivering antenatal education is identified.