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MA/PhD Theses Abstracts of Current Students & Alumni |
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Kiefert, Virginia T., December 1986 - AN EVALUATION OF A CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION PROGRAM SUPPORTING A BIO-SOCIAL MODEL OF CHILDBIRTH
Abstract: The present study was designed to evaluate a childbirth preparation program that is based on a bio-social model of childbirth, in contrast to the bio-medical focus of contemporary U.S. obstetrical care. The subjects for this study were nine women in their third trimester of pregnancy. All subjects participated in a childbirth preparation program consisting of eight, one-hour private sessions. The training included the use of biofeedback assisted relaxation techniques and education concerning the cultural influences that shape birthing experiences. The bio-social childbirth preparation program was evaluated through measurement of duration of labor, medications used, and the woman's perception of labor and delivery. The results suggest that a biosocial childbirth preparation program improves labor and delivery. The subjects' time in labor was reduced, medications required were minimal, and responses to the postdelivery interviews indicate successful incorporation of culturally specific information to individual needs.
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