{"title":"Fear of Childbirth/Tokophobia: Implications for Childbirth Educators.","authors":"Betty Carlson Bowles, Marty Gibson","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0001","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1891/JPE-2024-0001","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Most women experience childbirth with a positive outlook. However, some women have perceptions of trauma, invasive exams, loss of control, and violation of privacy in childbirth, leading to disgust, aversion, and fear. Severe fear of childbirth (FOC) is called <i>tokophobia</i>, which can profoundly affect the experience and outcomes of pregnancy, childbirth, and mothering. This article will raise awareness of FOC/tokophobia by reviewing its presentation and predisposing characteristics, recognizing its impacts and outcomes, and encouraging referrals to medical/psychological caregivers for early diagnosis and treatment. It will review ways childbirth educators can support those women with this condition, give realistic expectations of childbirth, and promote a safe and secure atmosphere to allay fear and support them through this stressful experience.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 2","pages":"82-87"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12283106/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144700037","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Who's Stressed? Social Factors and Women's Stress Experiences 2 to 22 Months Postpartum.","authors":"Lorraine O Walker, Nicole Murry, Heather Becker","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0003","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1891/JPE-2024-0003","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>We examined the stressors of mothers between 2 and 22 months postpartum, the association of stressors with social factors, and when stressors were heightened. Surveys of 372 women covered social factors and postpartum stressors (Overload, Changes after pregnancy, Baby care, Working mother concerns, Low support, and Isolation). Overload was the most frequent stressor compared to the other stressors, <i>p</i> < .001. Full-time employment and number of children were the social factors most frequently associated with stressors. Overall, social factors were most highly associated with Working mother concerns. Findings indicate that full-time employed mothers could benefit from workplace and community support. In particular, guidance from health care professionals and childbirth educators about managing stress could aid mothers, especially those with first children.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 2","pages":"54-65"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12283104/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144700039","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Report on an Online Self-Care Package Based on the Alexander Technique to Aid Postpartum Mothers' Self-Care: A Small Scale Mixed-Methods Study.","authors":"Nicola Hanefeld, Lesley Glover, Julie Jomeen, Franziska Wadephul","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0035","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1891/JPE-2023-0035","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The postpartum period is a potentially challenging transitional life period with heightened vulnerability and compromised self-care. Mothers can struggle to acknowledge their needs when prioritizing baby care. The Alexander technique (AT) is a well-established psychophysical re-education method with a growing evidence base. It is traditionally taught in a 1:1 teaching context. The method has been shown to be effective in managing some mind-body tension issues and heightening self-efficacy and self-care. The AT has the potential to help compromised aspects of maternal well-being in the postpartum period. This small-scale study aimed to explore an online maternal self-care package based on the AT. The following was assessed: the appropriateness of the outcome measures, the design, recruitment, and adherence. Participant views on the acceptability and usability of the package, as well as barriers and facilitators to using it, were collected. This study employs a mixed-methods approach. Findings suggest the package positively impacted participants' psychophysical well-being; it was easy to use and acceptable to participants. Online self-care packages for women in the postpartum period based on the AT warrant further research. Online postpartum packages offer mothers easy access, merit further research, and could contribute to supporting maternal well-being.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 2","pages":"66-81"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12283103/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144700035","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Examining Professionalism as a Means of Improving Antenatal Education.","authors":"Kate Luxion, Tonya Daniel, Nancy Bonilla","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2022-0024","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1891/JPE-2022-0024","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>As a childbirth educator (CBE), it is important to maintain an ethical, evidence-based practice. For the Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, this is guided by organizational documents in the form of the standards of practice and the code of ethics. However, these ethics and standards are universally relevant and should be used when considering a contemporary definition of professionalism for CBEs. This article examines professionalism and organizational standards and finishes with vignettes to further explore their application. For parent-centered antenatal education, professionalism should be seen as emphasizing ethics, evidence, and inclusion while moving toward a gold standard for antenatal education.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 2","pages":"108-117"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12283105/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144700036","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Elizabeth A Jones Spurlock, Rita H Pickler, Marliese Dion Nist
{"title":"Preparation, Experience of Discrimination, and Birth Experience Among Women Birthing in Ohio.","authors":"Elizabeth A Jones Spurlock, Rita H Pickler, Marliese Dion Nist","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0019","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0019","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Childbirth preparedness is related to maternal health outcomes, especially those occurring in the early postpartum period. Women birthing in Ohio were recruited for a longitudinal cohort study to identify predictors of childbirth preparedness, examine associations between childbirth preparedness and experiences of discrimination, and determine effects of preparedness on satisfaction with birth. Childbirth preparedness, especially related to the patient-provider relationship, was associated with maternal race, insurance type, and experiences of discrimination. It was associated with overall satisfaction, autonomy in decision-making, and perceived respect. By understanding the relationships among childbirth preparedness, experiences of discrimination, and satisfaction with birth, interventions can be developed to decrease maternal morbidity and increase health equity.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"39-50"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885112/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587820","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Childbirth Educators' Attitudes Toward Implicit Bias and Intention to Self-Monitor Behavior.","authors":"Megan E Newhouse-Bailey, Candace L Ayars","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0026","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0026","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The lead researcher surveyed certified childbirth educators (<i>n</i> = 266) using modified versions of the Attitudes Towards Implicit Bias Instrument (ATIBI) and the CPD-REACTION Questionnaire. Most study participants (73%) reported they have participated in implicit bias education (IBE). Using a hierarchal regression, the lead researcher evaluated if years as a childbirth educator, ATIBI scores, and participation in IBE were associated with the intention to incorporate self-monitoring of implicit bias into practice. The findings of this study show that IBE increases the intention to self-monitor in childbirth educators by way of improved attitudes toward implicit bias (adjusted <i>R</i> <sup>2</sup> = .430, <i>p</i> < .05) and suggest requirements for childbirth educators are justified.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"27-38"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885114/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587730","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Embracing Strength and Compassion: A Birth Journey.","authors":"Tihana Gašpert","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0018","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Embracing strength and compassion defined a transformative and unforgettable childbirth experience at University Hospital Rijeka on July 31, 2021. Guided by empathetic and skilled midwifery care, the journey was marked by moments of anticipation, intensity, and profound joy. Supportive guidance during every stage of labor, from managing contractions to making critical decisions, provided reassurance and empowerment during moments of uncertainty and pain. Despite unexpected challenges, such as the inability to receive an epidural, unwavering encouragement and adaptability helped transform a potentially overwhelming situation into one of profound joy. This story highlights the vital role of skilled and compassionate care in shaping a positive birthing experience.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"4-5"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885110/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587811","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Postpartum Depression and the Disclosure Process.","authors":"Kelsey Lunsford, Ann Miller","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0051","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0051","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Using a qualitative approach, this study examined disclosure patterns of women who have experienced symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is a mental illness that new parents are at risk of developing. If left unresolved, PPD can have severe, negative impacts on the development of the baby and the well-being of the parent. Unfortunately, due to the stigmatized nature of the illness, parents are sometimes reluctant to bring up their struggles with this illness and seek help. Eighteen women who had experienced PPD within the past 5 years were recruited and participated in an interview where they were asked questions regarding their disclosure behaviors. Using communication privacy management theory, the data were examined to explain disclosure patterns. Findings were discovered using a thematic analysis. Themes of disclosure processes, disclosure considerations, boundary maintenance, and effects of disclosure were prompted by the theory, and several subthemes were discovered in the data. This study highlights the challenges that many mothers face when trying to disclose their mental health difficulties to others, like family members, coworkers, and health-care professionals in the postpartum stage.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"15-26"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885111/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587817","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"In This Issue-The Value of Peer Review.","authors":"Wendy C Budin","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0037","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2024-0037","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>In this column, the editor of <i>The Journal of Perinatal Education</i> discusses the value of peer review and how the peer review process works. The editor also describes the contents of this issue, which offer a broad range of resources, research, and inspiration for childbirth educators in their efforts to promote, support, and protect natural, safe, and healthy birth and postpartum.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"1-3"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885113/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587814","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Survivors of Placenta Accreta: What Their Blogs Can Tell Us.","authors":"Cheryl Tatano Beck","doi":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0037","DOIUrl":"10.1891/JPE-2023-0037","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Prior cesarean birth is the most significant predictor of placenta accreta which can place the woman and her infant's lives at risk. With the continuing increase in cesarean birth rate, it is essential that childbirth educators inform women of this life-threatening risk. Insightful information from blogs written by survivors of placenta accreta pregnancies can help guide clinical practice and childbirth education. Content analysis of 22 blogs posted on the internet identified seven themes that provide an insider's view of placenta accreta: the shock of it all, living in constant fear, advocate for yourself to get some sense of control, my mental health is deteriorating, you saved our lives!, recommendations, and posttraumatic growth.</p>","PeriodicalId":46449,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Perinatal Education","volume":"34 1","pages":"6-14"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11885109/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143587823","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}