Birth choice following primary caesarean section : mothers' perceptions of the influence of health professionals on decision-making

Abstract

This study explored mothers' perceptions of the influences of health professionals (GPs, midwives and consultants) on decisions as to mode of delivery of second children, following a previous caesarean section (CS). Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 pregnant women (31-40 years), expecting a second child following a first delivery by caesarean section (20-40 weeks gestation). Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed four themes accounting for participants' understandings of relevant influences. Participants regarded themselves as (1) lacking relevant knowledge to make an informed choice, (2) obtaining probabilistic information, and (3) receiving latent communication from health professionals regarding choice of mode of delivery. Their perceived response was (4) to relinquish control over the mode of second delivery to the health professionals involved.