Date of Award
Spring 5-15-2023
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (A.B.)
Restricted/Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Abstract
Background: Safety during childbirth is a priority for care providers, but patients' perceptions of safety may differ from those of providers, especially in biomedical settings.1–4 This can influence health outcomes and satisfaction with the birth experience.5–7 We hypothesize that autonomy, defined as the ability to make decisions about care during childbirth, may enhance feelings of safety and positive mental health outcomes.9,15
Methods: Surveys via REDCap v11.1.29 captured the experiences and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores of pregnant and postpartum women. Participants (n=49) included 15 pregnant and 34 postpartum individuals, aged 18 and older, who had given birth within the last two years. We controlled for COVID-19's impact on birth experiences. Quantitative data were analyzed using IBM SPSS (v29), and qualitative analyses were conducted in Excel.
Results: No statistically significant association was found between mental health and birth factors (e.g., the presence and execution of a birth plan, shared characteristics with providers, etc.) (p < 0.05). Qualitative analysis identified trends that promote feelings of safety, such as decision-making with a provider, security in the patient-provider relationship, comfort in the birth setting, and support from family and providers.
Conclusions: Providers can enhance patient satisfaction by listening to concerns and offering respectful expertise without pressure..9,10,14 Implementing accessible alternative care models is crucial for all birthing individuals.5,22 There is sufficient evidence that we have the providers and frameworks necessary to boost comfort, satisfaction, safety, and autonomy for all birthing individuals.3,5,56–59
Mentor
Dr. Theresa Gildner
Additional Advisors
Dr. Bret Gustafson, Dr. E.A. Quinn, Dr. Joe Steensma
Recommended Citation
Orinda, Beldina, "Birthing reimagined: Perceptions of safety and autonomy in birth experiences among postpartum individuals during COVID-19" (2023). Senior Honors Papers / Undergraduate Theses. 64.
https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/undergrad_etd/64
Included in
Maternal and Child Health Commons, Other Anthropology Commons, Patient Safety Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Social and Cultural Anthropology Commons, Social Justice Commons, Women's Health Commons