Selection factors involved in the choice of childbirth method

Childbirth preparation classes, such as those based on the Lamaze and Bradley approaches, and childbirths outside of the traditional hospital setting have increased in popularity in this country over the past several years. Although there has been considerable theorizing in both the lay and professional press as to why this is so, actual research into how and why a couple decides to attend childbirth classes or to have their baby at home has been limited. The following review critically summarizes the research that has been done, notes the implications, and suggests what else is needed.