Cologne, Germany — A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Cologne, University of Düsseldorf, and University Hospital Bonn has shed light on how various obstetric interventions affect the birthing experience. The study, titled “Obstetric Interventions’ Effects on the Birthing Experience,” was published in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth and reveals significant insights into mothers’ satisfaction with their childbirth experiences across Germany.
The research surveyed 852 mothers between eight and twelve months post-birth, evaluating their experiences based on four key dimensions: ‘own capacity,’ ‘professional support,’ ‘perceived safety,’ and ‘participation.’ The findings indicate that vaginal births without medical intervention received the highest satisfaction ratings across all dimensions. On average, mothers rated their birthing experience 3.09 out of a possible 4 points. However, those who experienced obstetric interventions reported notably lower satisfaction scores.
Obstetric interventions examined in the study include fundal pressure (pressure on the abdomen), unplanned C-sections, episiotomy, and assisted vaginal deliveries (vacuum extraction/forceps). Among these, unplanned C-sections received the lowest ratings for ‘own capacity’ and ‘perceived safety,’ while assisted vaginal deliveries scored lower than unplanned C-sections in ‘professional support’ and ‘participation.’ Women undergoing unplanned C-sections or assisted vaginal deliveries generally reported a lower sense of ‘own capacity’ compared to those who had fundal pressure or episiotomy.
Despite these findings, the researchers observed that negative experiences in one area were sometimes balanced by positive experiences in another. This underscores the critical role of support and active participation during childbirth.
Principal investigator Professor Dr. Nadine Scholten, now holding a professorship for psychosomatic and psycho-oncological health services research at the University of Bonn, emphasized the importance of empowerment and effective teamwork between the obstetric team and the birthing individuals. “Since women are more dissatisfied with their birth experience when undergoing obstetric interventions, aspects like empowerment as well as good cooperation between the obstetric team and the persons giving birth are particularly important,” she stated.
The study is part of the MAM-Care project, which focuses on the needs, participation, and safety in obstetric care in Germany. It highlights a significant gap in scientific research concerning obstetric care in hospitals and the issue of ‘women experiencing violence during childbirth.’
Anna Volkert, the study’s first author, noted, “Promoting self-efficacy, establishing a connection, offering support, and alleviating fears can contribute to a positive birth experience despite interventions.” The authors advocate for further research to explore unexplained variances in birthing experiences and suggest developing strategies with obstetric teams to minimize negative experiences when interventions are necessary.
This study provides valuable insights for improving obstetric care and ensuring a more supportive and positive birthing experience for women across Germany.