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. 2023 Dec;50(4):968-977.
doi: 10.1111/birt.12744. Epub 2023 Jul 23.

Mediating expectations and experiences that influence birth experiences in Canada's first Alongside Midwifery Unit

Beth Murray-Davis  1 , Lindsay N Grenier  1 , Cristina Mattison  1 , Anne M Malott  1   2 , Carol Cameron  1   2 , Jenifer Li  1 , Elizabeth Darling  1 , Eileen K Hutton  1
Affiliations

Mediating expectations and experiences that influence birth experiences in Canada's first Alongside Midwifery Unit

Beth Murray-Davis et al. Birth. 2023 Dec.

Abstract

Background: Globally, midwifery-led birthing units are associated with excellent maternal and neonatal outcomes, and positive childbirth experiences. However, little is known about what aspects of midwife-led units contribute to favorable experiences and overall satisfaction. Our aim was to explore and describe midwifery service user experiences at Canada's first Alongside Midwifery Unit (AMU).

Methods: We used a qualitative, grounded theory approach using semi-structured interviews with recipients of midwifery care at the AMU.

Findings: Data were collected from twenty-eight participants between September 2018 and March 2020. Our generated theory explains how birth experiences and satisfaction were influenced by how well the AMU aligned with expectations or desired experiences related to the following four themes: (1) maintaining the midwifery model of care, (2) emphasizing control and choice, (3) facilitating interprofessional relationships, and (4) appreciating the unique AMU birthing environment.

Conclusion: Canada's first AMU met or exceeded service-user expectations, resulting in high levels of satisfaction with their birth experience. Maintaining core elements of the midwifery model of care, promoting high levels of autonomy, and facilitating positive interprofessional interactions are crucial elements contributing to childbirth satisfaction in the AMU environment.

Keywords: alongside midwifery unit; childbirth satisfaction; interprofessional collaboration; midwifery model of care; midwifery-led unit.

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References

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