Pregnant women's perceptions of prenatal care.

Problem: To describe pregnant women's perceptions in two specific areas: expectations about prenatal care and satisfaction with prenatal care.

Method: A focus group technique using a semi-structured interview format. Three focus groups (N = 22) were conducted in the third trimester of pregnancy. Data were transcribed from the taped sessions and studied using content analysis.

Findings: Three major dimensions of satisfaction were identified: satisfaction with health care provider(s); satisfaction with support staff; and satisfaction with the prenatal care, including the desire for continuity of provider, clear explanations, and accessible quality care.

Conclusions & implications for nursing: The provider relationship was identified as having the greatest influence on the women's satisfaction with prenatal care. Satisfaction with prenatal care can be enhanced through positive provider-patient interactions.