Views of obstetricians and hysiotherapists on ante-natal preparation for childbirth

Abstract

Obstetricians’ and physiotherapists' views of ante-natal childbirth preparation classes were examined by means of a postal questionnaire. Responses of 108 obstetricians and 57 physiotherapists revealed some marked differences in perceptions of childbirth classes offered by physiotherapists. In general physiotherapists' views were most favourable while obstetricians views were less so. Differences between physiotherapists’ and obstetricians’ views regarding the relevance of, and emphasis placed on, topics in childbirth preparation courses were also revealed. Data must, however, be viewed with caution due to the low response rate obtained.