Validation of a Questionnaire Assessing Pregnant Women's Perspectives on Addressing the Psychological Challenges of Childbirth.

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnant women's experiences and concerns regarding childbirth are complex, necessitating a multidimensional and personalized approach in maternal care. This study explores the psychological and emotional factors influencing pregnant women's decisions regarding their mode of delivery. The results will provide valuable insights for the development of educational and counseling strategies designed to support pregnant women in making informed and conscious decisions about their childbirth.

Material and method: This cross-sectional study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire exploring the psychological dimensions of childbirth. Factor analysis was employed to assess emotional perceptions, perceived medical risks, and the impact of cesarean section on pregnant women. The questionnaire was distributed online via Google Forms, using social networks like Facebook and Instagram to ensure rapid and broad accessibility. The questionnaire was available for seven months, from January to July 2023.

Results: McDonald's ω, Cronbach's α, average inter-item correlation, and total item correlations were calculated to assess the consistency of the questionnaire items in measuring the same construct. The three-factor model emerged as the primary structure based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). The first profile, centered on the psychological and emotional benefits of vaginal birth, highlights the importance of the natural birth experience for the mother's psychological well-being. The second profile addresses concerns about medical risks and the need for interventions. The third profile focuses on perceptions and concerns related to the intelligence and adaptability of children born by cesarean section and the effects of anesthesia.

Conclusions: Each profile reflects different strategies for seeking control and security amid childbirth uncertainties. These include emphasizing the psychological benefits of vaginal birth, addressing medical risks, and focusing on the impact of interventions on child development. Understanding these variables is essential for providing appropriate counseling and psychosocial support, thereby optimizing the birth experience and promoting the health of both mother and child. The integration of multi-factor and single-factor models in the questionnaire analysis serves complementary purposes, providing distinct yet interrelated insights into the instrument's structure and validity.