Preparation of Pregnant Women for Natural Childbirth and its Course – Knowledge and Attitudes – Cross-Sectional Studies

Abstract Background Preparing a pregnant woman for natural childbirth plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive birthing experience. That process includes prenatal education, physical preparation of the body, and emotional support, which together help reduce anxiety, stress, and pain associated with childbirth. The role of prenatal education is particularly important as it provides expectant mothers with knowledge about the physiology of childbirth, breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, and non-pharmacological methods of pain management. The aim of this study is to understand the level of preparation of women for childbirth, assess the impact of childbirth preparation on its course and the experience of birthing women, and analyse the relationship between various forms of preparation and the levels of stress, anxiety, and satisfaction with childbirth. Methods Cross-sectional studies were conducted with a group of 201 pregnant women at the University Clinical Hospital in Białystok. Participants completed questionnaires before and after childbirth, that assessed their knowledge, skills, and experience related to childbirth. The study was conducted by means of a self-designed questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Generalised Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and the Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI). Results No effect of childbirth preparation on perceived satisfaction after childbirth has been found. Women with a higher sense of self-efficacy more frequently used non-pharmacological methods of pain relief during childbirth, performed pelvic floor muscle exercises, used perineal massage, and prepared a birth plan. They also rated their degree of preparation for childbirth higher. Childbirth preparation is not related to the mode of delivery but it increases the likelihood of using non-pharmacological methods of pain relief during childbirth. Conclusions It is important for pregnant women to have access to appropriate sources of support and information, which may have a positive impact upon their birthing experience. Particular attention should be given to the provision of adequate support from medical staff and improvement of a birthing woman’s self-efficacy since the level of satisfaction does not solely depend on childbirth preparation.