Description:

Childbirth preparation and obstetric care encompass all measures and support provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the immediate postpartum period. Childbirth preparation classes and counseling aim to prepare expectant parents for birth by providing information on the birth process, pain relief methods, breathing techniques, and newborn care. Obstetric care refers to the medical and nursing support provided during labor and delivery by midwives, obstetricians, and doctors. The goal is to ensure a safe and positive childbirth experience.

Indications:

• Pregnant Women: All pregnant women can benefit from childbirth preparation classes to prepare for the upcoming birth, whether it is their first pregnancy or they already have children.
• Women with High-Risk Pregnancies: Women with high-risk pregnancies, such as those with multiple pregnancies, pre-existing conditions, or complications during pregnancy, may require specialized obstetric care.
• Women Seeking a Natural Birth: Women planning for a vaginal birth with minimal or no medical intervention can benefit from specific childbirth preparation for the birthing process.
• Women Planning a Surgical Delivery: Women considering a planned cesarean section for medical reasons or personal preferences also require comprehensive preparation and support through obstetric care.

Procedure:

1. Childbirth Preparation:
   • Childbirth Preparation Classes: These classes, led by midwives, obstetricians, and other qualified professionals, cover a variety of topics, including the birth process, stages of labor, natural and medical pain relief methods, breathing and relaxation techniques, breastfeeding, and newborn care. Classes can be offered in groups, as individual counseling, or online.
   • Nutrition and Health Counseling: During childbirth preparation, women receive advice on proper nutrition and lifestyle to promote the health of both mother and child. This can include information on weight gain, exercise, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
   • Birth Plan: Women are encouraged to create a birth plan outlining their preferences for the birth, including desired pain relief methods, the presence of partners or doulas, and attitudes toward potential interventions such as cesarean section or episiotomy.
2. Obstetric Care:
   • Support During Labor: During labor, the obstetric team provides continuous support, monitoring, and care. Midwives and doctors monitor the mother and baby, assess the progress of labor, and provide pain relief and emotional support. Medical interventions such as the administration of labor-inducing drugs or an epidural may be performed if needed.
   • Birth Management: During delivery, the obstetric team assists the woman in giving birth safely. This can involve various positions, breathing techniques, and supportive measures to promote a gentle birth. In the event of complications, such as labor arrest, surgical interventions like a forceps delivery or cesarean section may be necessary.
   • Postpartum Phase: After birth, the postpartum phase (placenta delivery) is monitored, and the well-being of both mother and child is ensured. The newborn is also examined during this phase, and breastfeeding is initiated if desired.
3. Aftercare: After birth, the mother continues to be monitored to ensure she is recovering well and no complications arise. Midwives and doctors provide support with breastfeeding, infant care, and recovery from birth, including managing postpartum discomforts such as pain or bleeding. Emotional support in adjusting to life with a newborn is also part of aftercare.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Preparation: Childbirth preparation classes provide valuable information and techniques that help reduce anxiety and prepare parents for birth.
• Enhanced Birth Experience: Through obstetric care, women can have a safer and more positive birth experience by receiving support, monitoring, and pain relief.
• Ensuring Maternal and Child Health: Continuous monitoring and appropriate interventions during childbirth help ensure the health and safety of both mother and child.
• Promoting Recovery: Aftercare supports physical and emotional recovery after birth and provides assistance in adjusting to life with a newborn.