What are women’s views on homebirth? A study to inform the development of practical strategies that will promote birth at home as a choice for low-risk, multiparous women

Naylor-Smith, Jo (2015). What are women’s views on homebirth? A study to inform the development of practical strategies that will promote birth at home as a choice for low-risk, multiparous women. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

Preview

Naylor-Smith15MRes.pdf
PDF - Redacted Version
Download (1MB)

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate women’s views about homebirth, what influences their choice of place of birth, and the support and information they need to consider homebirth as a safe and realistic option.
The main themes identified in a critical literature review informed the topic guide for 6 focus groups undertaken with 28 women. Potential participants were identified by leaders of local mother and baby groups who used posters to promote the study. The study sample was women who had all had at least one baby in the last year, and recent experience of local maternity services.
Framework Analysis was used to identify deductive and inductive themes in the data, and the findings from this phase of the study were discussed as part of a focus group with 8 members of the Homebirth Team at the local Trust.
It was found that the women needed more information about the practicalities and experience of homebirth and trust in the service, before making a decision about home birth. It was observed that the views of other mothers shared in the group discussion influenced women’s views on place of birth. These results have implications for practice with regard to how information is presented to mothers, and the involvement of health professionals in helping mothers make decisions.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):