18/03/2026
if someone told you that you could decrease your risk of birth trauma, just through planning, preparing and gaining the right kind of knowledge... wouldn't you do anything you could to do it?
Well it's true. it has been proven time and time again.
so what are you waiting for?
1. Fiona J. Haines et al. (2015)
*The effects of a childbirth psychoeducation program on childbirth fear, pain, and birth outcomes: A randomized controlled trial*
→ Found psychoeducation significantly reduced childbirth fear and improved birth experience.
2. Alexandra Toohill et al. (2014)
*A randomized controlled trial of a psychoeducation intervention for women with high childbirth fear*
→ Reduced fear levels and improved psychological wellbeing.
3. Catherine Stoll et al. (2018)
*Childbirth fear and associated outcomes: A systematic review*
→ Demonstrated strong links between fear, intervention, and traumatic birth perception — supporting fear-reduction education.
4. Susanne Uldbjerg et al. (2011)
*No effect of hypnosis on labour pain, but improved birth experience: A randomized controlled trial*
→ Women reported more positive birth experiences.
5. Mark H. Beattie et al. (2014)
*The effect of antenatal education on childbirth satisfaction and psychological outcomes*
→ Antenatal education improved confidence and satisfaction.
6. Cochrane Collaboration – Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth (most recent review 2017)
→ Continuous support (often taught in birth prep) reduced caesarean rates and negative birth experiences.
7. Hannah G. Dahlen et al. (2013)
*Effects of antenatal education on childbirth fear and birth outcomes*
→ Found structured education reduced fear and intervention.
8. Soo Downe et al. (2015)
*Effectiveness of antenatal education in small classes*
→ Improved confidence and emotional outcomes.
9. D. Slade et al. (2006)
*A longitudinal study of PTSD symptoms following childbirth*
→ Identified predictors of trauma — including fear and lack of control — factors targeted in birth prep.
10. World Health Organization (2018)
WHO Recommendations: Intrapartum care for a positive childbirth experience
→ Emphasises preparation, informed choice, and supportive care as protective against negative/traumatic birth experiences.
