Open AccessThe Effect of Hospital-Based Childbirth Classes on Birth Outcomes
Author(s) -
Kristen K Hands,
Claire Davies,
Dorothy Brockopp,
Martha Monroe
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
the journal of perinatal education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1548-8519
pISSN - 1058-1243
DOI - 10.1891/j-pe-d-20-00050
Subject(s) - childbirth , medicine , obstetrics , cohort , pregnancy , home birth , intervention (counseling) , pediatrics , nursing , genetics , biology
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a hospital-based childbirth preparation class on birth outcomes in nulliparous women ( N = 222). Outcomes of expectant mothers who attended the class were compared to a matched control cohort who did not attend preparation classes. Findings revealed women in the intervention group were more likely to give birth vaginally. While trends in a positive direction occurred, no significant difference was found in the frequency of elective induction, preterm birth, or length of stay. Data were also analyzed pre COVID-19 pandemic and 14 weeks after. A shorter time between hospital arrival and birth was significant for the intervention group. In addition, a significant change in elective induction (increase) occurred in the control group.