Identifying Priorities for Prepared Childbirth Research

Abstract

Priorities for research on prepared childbirth were identified by means of a statewide Delphi Study. Sample groups of childbirth educators and maternity nurses formulated research topics and set priorities among the topics. Overall, 50 items were specified in four categories: Prenatal Education/Preparation, Labor and Delivery (normal), Postpartum, and Complications. Data were analyzed to identify priorities in each category and to determine the levels of consensus among samples. The need for research on specific areas of prepared childbirth, as perceived by these sample groups, is reported. Although a high level of consensus is apparent, interesting differences emerged.