Consumer obstetrics.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the perceptions of patients about delivery of their babies. METHOD: One hundred and forty four out of 200 surveyed women answered consumer orientated questions before and after delivery. RESULTS: They were on the whole satisfied with antenatal classes (there seemed to be a need for more information in the form of an on-the-ward postnatal class), disliked the practice of perineal shaves (but did not object to enemas or rupture of membranes) and felt they had adequate analgesia (although not for after-pains or the discomfort of haemorrhoids in the puerperium). Women who intend to deliver in the more (western) conventional positions are less likely to be disappointed. Women expressed the desire to be more actively involved in some aspects of delivery such as cutting the cord, putting the baby to the breast and being alone with partner and baby immediately after delivery. Cardiotocography (CTG) is more reassuring than frightening. A "Birthing Room" is seen as a satisfactory alternative to home delivery.