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Factors influencing midwives’ intentions to facilitate normal physiological birth: A qualitative study
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Factors influencing midwives’ intentions to facilitate normal physiological birth: A qualitative study

Holly Meyer, Nigel Lee, Kendall George and Lauren Kearney
Women and Birth, Vol.37(4), pp.1-8
2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2024.101617
PMID: 38701683
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Meyer et al 2024 Factor influencing midwives intentions to facilitate normal physiological birth_a qualitative study433.23 kBDownloadView
Published Version Open Access CC BY V4.0

Abstract

Midwifery Midwifery not elsewhere classified Influences Intentions Midwifery Normal physiological birth Qualitative Research Theory of Planned Behaviour
Background Whilst most women desire to birth vaginally, research highlights reducing rates of normal physiological birth worldwide. Previous studies have focussed largely on clinical practices associated with vaginal birth however health care professionals’ intentions are also known to effect behaviour; a factor not well understood within the context of midwifery and normal physiological birth. Question/Aim To explore factors influencing midwives’ intentions to facilitate normal physiological birth. Methods A qualitative study using individual interviews was conducted. The Theory of Planned Behaviour was used to develop a semi-structured interview guide to gather perceptions, thoughts, knowledge, and experience of normal physiological birth from participants. Data were analysed thematically within the theoretical constructs: attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. Findings Fourteen midwives from various practice settings, models, and locations in Australia were interviewed. Major factors influencing midwives’ intentions to facilitate normal physiological birth were influenced by workplace culture, values and influence of leaders, the need to prioritise collaborative interdisciplinary relationships and support autonomy in midwifery. Discussion Factors influencing the midwives’ intentions of facilitating normal physiological birth were multifaceted. Some influences are more obvious and observable through practice, while others were rooted in underlying beliefs and attitudes that were hidden in the subconscious of those involved. However, all contributing influences ultimately shape midwives’ intentions and the way in which they facilitate normal physiological birth. Conclusions Midwives intend to support normal physiological birth; however multiple factors influence their intentions over time. Prioritising collaborative interdisciplinary relationships and supporting autonomy in midwifery could address known barriers.

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