Evaluating a Group‐Based Intervention Addressing Fear of Childbirth in Multiparous Pregnant Women: A Mixed Methods Feasibility Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a group-based intervention for addressing fear of childbirth in multiparous women.

Design

Single-arm non-randomised feasibility trial with a convergent mixed methods design.

Methods

The intervention, conducted at a central maternity hospital and led by a psychiatric nurse and a midwife, included three prenatal and one postnatal face-to-face group sessions, supplemented by a phone call. Quantitative measures were gathered via self-report questionnaires at baseline, before birth, and post-intervention. Exit interviews were conducted with participants and interventionists. Additional data included records from recruiting midwives, the primary investigator, and diaries filled out by the interventionists after each session. Primary outcomes assessed included recruitment, adherence, acceptability, and fidelity. Secondary outcomes included fear of childbirth, anxiety, depression, and childbirth experience.

Results

The intervention was feasible and acceptable. Recruitment and adherence aligned with pre-study expectations. Indicative results suggested potential improvement in fear of childbirth and helped secure a positive childbirth experience, particularly through peer discussions and the birthing class.

Conclusion

While the intervention is considered feasible and acceptable, it requires further refinement before proceeding to a multicentre randomised controlled pilot trial.

Implications for Patient Care

The group-based intervention may have potential in reducing fear of childbirth and enhancing the childbirth experience for multiparous women. These women may particularly benefit from peer support and childbirth classes.

Impact

Rising fear of childbirth can adversely affect mothers, families, and society. Existing interventions often target primiparous women, neglecting multiparous women. This study evaluated a novel group-based intervention for fear of childbirth in multiparous women in Finland. Findings confirmed its feasibility and acceptability, with preliminary results showing a positive impact on fear of childbirth. Further research is needed to validate these findings. This research has implications for multiparous women and the healthcare professionals supporting them.

Reporting Methods

The study adhered to CONSORT extension guidelines for reporting randomised pilot and feasibility trials (Supplementary file 1) and the TIDieR checklist (Supplementary file 2).

Patient Contribution

Limited patient and public involvement was incorporated, focusing on the development of the intervention.

Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05766202