The Comparison of Birth Plan Expectations and Birth Afterthought of Iranian Primiparous Women: A Longitudinal Comparative Study Publisher Pubmed

Summary: Birth plan gap? Study finds 66.9% of moms unsatisfied—expectations unmet. Suggests tailored interventions. #Childbirth #MaternalHealth

Gholami F¹ ; Farnam F¹ ; Faal Siahkal S² ; Ebrahimi E^{3, 4}
Source: Midwifery Published:2025

Abstract

Problem: The fulfillment of women's expectations from the birth plan has not been investigated longitudinally in the postpartum period. Background: The childbirth experience encompasses a wide range of emotions for mothers. A positive childbirth experience is strongly associated with the fulfillment of childbirth expectations in women. Aim: This longitudinal study aimed to assess the alignment between birth plan expectations and postpartum experiences. Methods: 184 primiparous pregnant women aged 15–49 in their third trimester were recruited. Prior to childbirth, participants completed demographic questionnaires and a birth plan checklist, and then, 4–6 weeks after childbirth, they filled out questionnaires about their childbirth experiences and satisfaction. Findings: Mothers had high expectations before giving birth, such as having a companion (91.6 %), experiencing calm and silence (60.4 %), being able to drink liquids during labor (64.28 %), having freedom of movement (92.9 %), avoiding continuous fetal monitoring (89.6 %), using warm water or a bath (61 %), and desiring immediate breastfeeding (55.8 %). However, none of these expectations were completely fulfilled in the mothers' postpartum perceptions (P < 0.001). The majority (66.9 %) had a low level of satisfaction with their vaginal birth. Discussion: The findings reveal a significant gap between their birth plan expectations and postpartum experiences between Iranian primiparous women. Conclusions: By using birth plans to assess expectations, implementing intervention based on women's preferences, and evaluating postpartum experiences, it may be possible to create more positive childbirth experiences and increase satisfaction. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd