Navigating fear of birth: women's desire for relational midwifery continuity of care.

Abstract

Background: Midwifery continuity models of care have been associated with positive health outcomes and positive childbirth experiences. Such models may be beneficial for women with fear of birth but remain uncommon in Sweden.

Aim: To explore thoughts and perceptions of midwifery continuity of care among women with fear of birth and describe their experiences of fragmented maternity care.

Method: A qualitative research design in which semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted during pregnancy and postpartum with women scoring above 70 on the Fear of Birth Scale. Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: Two themes were identified: A desire for knowing and being known and Unheld in the hands of many. These illustrate women's desire to feel secure and their belief that a trusting relationship with a known midwife throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period could reduce their fear. Fragmented standard care was perceived as stressful, and all women expressed interest in midwifery continuity of care.

Conclusion: Women with fear of birth believed that relational continuity with a known midwife could foster trust, guidance and reduce fear. The fragmented standard care was perceived as uncertain, contributing to emotional distress. These findings highlight the need for personalized and relational midwifery care.