Women Friendly: The effectiveness of a woman-centered childbirth intervention in Israel

Abstract

Women with symptoms of post-trauma are vulnerable during childbirth and often lack trust in the medical staff in the delivery rooms. They are therefore in need of a sensitive intervention to prevent the formation or exacerbation of trauma in the perinatal period. This study evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of a “Woman Friendly” (WF)intervention for women with a history of trauma. During this intervention, the women were informed about childbirth and prepared for the delivery. Fourteen mothers aged 28–41 with symptoms of post-trauma who had participated in the WF intervention were interviewed about their experience within six months after giving birth. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Thematic analysis yielded six themes. One theme was during the pre-delivery period: 1) Preparation of the WF document. Four themes were during the delivery: 1) The WF document as an advocate; 2) security and safety; 3) Controlling the situation; and 4) Respect and kindness from the medical staff. The final theme was limitations of the WF intervention. It seems that a birth preparation intervention adapted to the needs of emotionally vulnerable women can help them to have positive birth experience. Childbirth preparation for these women should focus on their sensitivities rather than trauma-processing. The WF intervention holds promise for women with symptoms of post-trauma and should be further evaluated in future research.