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Henshall BI, Grimes HA, Davis J, East CE. What is 'physiological birth'? A scoping review of the perspectives of women and care providers. Midwifery 2024; 132:103964. [PMID: 38432119 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2024.103964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Physiological birth was defined by the World Health Organization in 1997, however, clinical practices in childbirth have changed considerably since this time. BACKGROUND Ambiguous terms in healthcare such as 'physiological birth' may cause confusion amongst care providers and consumers. AIM To identify what is known about physiological birth, and how perceptions of physiological birth manifest in current literature. METHODS This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Four databases were searched using keywords relating to physiological birth. Relevant studies were identified using agreed criteria, and data were extracted and synthesised. RESULTS A total of 24 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. Three connected factors were identified: (1) Physiological birth in a risk-averse system, (2) Dominant voices in birth, and (3) Lack of exposure to physiological birth. No unified universal definition of physiological birth was identified in the literature. DISCUSSION 'Physiological birth' as a term lacks consistency. A risk-averse healthcare system could be a barrier to physiological birth. Dominant voices in the birthing space can dictate the way birth occurs. Lack of exposure to physiological birth may diminish the acquisition and maintenance of important skills and knowledge among care providers. Recognising the factors important to women could lead to a positive birth experience. CONCLUSION Excluding a woman's subjective experience from health professionals' understanding of physiological birth increases the likelihood of risk management being the paramount objective in clinical decision-making. We propose it is timely to align clinical understanding of physiological birth with midwifery's woman-centred professional philosophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke I Henshall
- La Trobe University, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing & Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Hospital for Women, Mercy Health Pty Ltd, Heidelberg Victoria, Australia.
| | - Heather A Grimes
- La Trobe University, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing & Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Department of Nursing & Midwifery, Dames Cook University, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer Davis
- La Trobe University, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christine E East
- La Trobe University, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing & Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; Mercy Hospital for Women, Mercy Health Pty Ltd, Heidelberg Victoria, Australia
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Hoffmann L, Hilger N, Banse R. Men, mindsets and birth: results of a prospective longitudinal study. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38265755 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2024.2309374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
AIMS/BACKGROUND In recent years, there has been an increased interested in the contribution of fathers to childbirth. In the present paper we explore whether the father's birth-related mindset (being either more natural or more medical) can predict the mother's labour and birth outcomes and whether the father's experience and evaluation of the birth can predict his psychological well-being after the birth. DESIGN/METHODS We conducted a longitudinal study (N = 304 expecting fathers) spanning the first trimester of pregnancy up to six months after birth. RESULTS The study results could be integrated into a Single Indicator Model. They indicated that a father's more natural birth-related mindset predicted low-intervention birth for the mother. A low-intervention birth led to a more positive birth experience for the father, and in turn to better postpartum adjustment, fewer symptoms of postpartum paternal depression eight weeks after birth, and more secure bonding to the infant six months after birth. CONCLUSION The study results indicate that fathers do not take a merely passive role in childbirth. On the contrary, analogous to pregnant mothers, fathers' views about childbirth might contribute to the course of birth, and their own postpartum psychological well-being. The results of the present study, thus, highlight the importance of fathers for childbirth and in a broader sense, the results also contribute to a better understanding of the psychological framework of birth and represents a valuable starting point for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hoffmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Norbert Hilger
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rainer Banse
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Hoffmann L, Hilger N, Riolino E, Lenz A, Banse R. Partner support and relationship quality as potential resources for childbirth and the transition to parenthood. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:435. [PMID: 37312055 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05748-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present paper was to explore the role of partners for the stressful life events of birth and the transition to parenthood. METHODS In a first prospective longitudinal study (N = 304 dyads) we tested whether relationship quality positively predicted fewer interventions during labor and birth, a more positive birth experience, and better well-being during the first six weeks after birth. In a second study we surveyed mothers (N = 980; retrospective quasi-experimental design) who had given birth during the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020 - some in the absence of their partners - to test the assumption that regardless of relationship quality, the presence of the partner was positively related to low-intervention births and the birth experience. RESULTS The results of the longitudinal study (Study 1) could be integrated into a Single Indicator model. They revealed that a high relationship quality assessed between week 5 and week 25 of pregnancy had a positive effect on birth experience for the mother and on psychological well-being during the transition to parenthood for both mothers and fathers. Results of the retrospective quasi-experimental field study (Study 2) revealed that the continuous presence of the partner was associated with a higher probability of a low-intervention birth and a more positive birth experience. Presence of a partner for only part of the birth did not positively predict labor and birth, but did positively predict the birth experience. The effects were independent of relationship quality. CONCLUSION The results of both studies highlight the importance of partners for psychological well-being during labor and birth and the transition to parenthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hoffmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring 9, 53111, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Norbert Hilger
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring 9, 53111, Bonn, Germany
| | - Elena Riolino
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring 9, 53111, Bonn, Germany
| | - Annika Lenz
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring 9, 53111, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rainer Banse
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring 9, 53111, Bonn, Germany
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Emmens B, Hollins Martin CJ, Martin CR. Translation and validation of the Dutch version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R). J Reprod Infant Psychol 2023; 41:213-227. [PMID: 34792408 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2021.1979200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent observations suggest birth satisfaction may be significantly associated with postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PP-PTSD). The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is increasingly used Internationally as a short, valid and reliable multi-dimensional measure of birth experience. The current study sought to develop a Dutch version of the BSS-R (D-BSS-R) for clinical and research application in the Netherlands. METHODS Post-translation, a cross-sectional design with an embedded between-subjects component was used to evaluate key indices of validity and reliability of the D-BSS-R in a purposive sampled cohort of 244 Dutch-speaking women in the Netherlands. Confirmatory factor analysis, divergent, convergent and known-groups discriminant validity were evaluated as was the internal consistency of the measure. RESULTS The D-BSS-R was found to be a generally valid and reliable measure of birth experience with the key measurement characteristics of the original English-language measure transferring well to the Dutch context. Statistically significant negative correlations were observed between all D-BSS-R sub-scales and a validated measure of PTSD. CONCLUSIONS The D-BSS-R represents a valid and reliable measure of birth experience suitable and appropriate for use in the Netherlands. The study corroborates previous suggestions of linkage between birth satisfaction and PP-PTSD using a robust and diagnostically valid measure of trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berbel Emmens
- Independent Researcher, Counselor, MSc Applied Psychology
| | - Caroline J Hollins Martin
- Maternal Health, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Care Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland, UK
| | - Colin R Martin
- Institute for Health and Wellbeing, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, UK
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Hoffmann L, Hilger N, Banse R. The mindset of birth predicts birth outcomes: Evidence from a prospective longitudinal study. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ejsp.2940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
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Di Mattei VE, Perego G, Taranto P, Mazzetti M, Ferrari F, Derna N, Peccatori FA, Mangili G, Candiani M. Psychological issues in breast cancer survivors confronted with motherhood: Literature review and a call to action. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1133204. [PMID: 36960007 PMCID: PMC10029924 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1133204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is currently the most common cancer among women worldwide; in 15-25% of cases, patients are premenopausal at the time of diagnosis, and 50% of women desire pregnancy after cancer diagnosis. Motherhood after breast cancer involves complex psychological challenges with long-term consequences, though it is safely pursuable with adequate support. The purpose of this mini-review is to analyze the psychological implications surrounding pregnancy and motherhood after breast cancer and promote action in addressing the challenges that might affect women facing these life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Elisabetta Di Mattei
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Perego
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Taranto
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Mazzetti
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Noemi Derna
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fedro Alessandro Peccatori
- Fertility and Procreation Unit, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Aydın Beşen M, Yurdakul M. Reflection of the mother-daughter relationship on the perception of birth: a qualitative study among pregnant women. Women Health 2023; 63:164-174. [PMID: 36722032 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2022.2164114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This research is conducted to examine the effect of pregnant women's relationships with their mothers on their perception of birth. This is a qualitative analytic study. This research is carried out with 19 pregnant women who received service from a state hospital in a southern province of Turkey between November-December 2020. Pregnant women between the ages of 18-35, at the 32nd gestational week and above, and who had an active relationship with their mother were included in the study. Data were collected by interview method using semi-structured questions. Descriptive analysis was performed for the analysis of the data. All transcripts were evaluated by two researchers and codes were created. The codes formed the subthemes in terms of similarities and differences, themes were created as a result of combining themes. The data obtained consists of three main themes: 1) Mother - daughter relationship, 2) Perception of birth, 3) Perception of maternal support at the moment of birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meltem Aydın Beşen
- Department of Midwifery at the Icel School of Health, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Mine Yurdakul
- Department of Midwifery at the Icel School of Health, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
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Altuntuğ K, Kiyak S, Ege E. Relationship between birth memories and recall and perception of traumatic birth in women in the postpartum one-year period and affecting factors. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 43:1-9. [PMID: 36819747 PMCID: PMC9930061 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04336-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between birth memory and recall and the perception of traumatic birth in women who were a postpartum one-year period and the affecting factors. This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 285 participants in the pediatric department of a state university medical school. Data were collected using a participant information form, Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire, and Perception of Traumatic Childbirth Scale. In the study, it was determined that the women had a moderate level of birth memories and recall, and the rate of those with a "high" and "very high" perception of traumatic childbirth was 45.9%. According to path analysis, Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire score and educational status (primary secondary school) have a positive and significant effect on the perception of traumatic birth. The perception of traumatic birth was a predictor that explained 17.3% of birth memories and recall. Nearly half of the study participants perceived the experience of giving birth as traumatic, and birth memories and recall were at a moderate level. Improving women's perception of education and traumatic birth will contribute to positive birth memories and to create positive emotions when they remember their birth. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-023-04336-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamile Altuntuğ
- Faculty of Nursing, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Sibel Kiyak
- Seydişehir Kamil Akkanat Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Necmettin Erbakan University, Seydişehir, Konya, Turkey
| | - Emel Ege
- Faculty of Nursing, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
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Wanyenze EW, Nalwadda GK, Byamugisha JK, Muwanguzi PA, Tumwesigye NM. Effect of Midwife-Provided Orientation of Birth Companions on Maternal Anxiety and Coping during Labor: A Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Control Trial in Eastern Uganda. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1549. [PMID: 36674304 PMCID: PMC9866548 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to assess the effect of midwife-provided orientation of birth companions on maternal anxiety and coping during labor. A stepped wedge cluster randomized trial design was conducted among 475 participants (control n = 240), intervention n = 235) from four clusters. Midwives in the intervention period provided an orientation session for the birth companions on supportive labor techniques. Coping was assessed throughout labor and anxiety scores were measured after birth. Independent t-test and Chi-Square tests were used to assess the differences by study period. Anxiety scores were reduced among women in the intervention period (p = 0.001). The proportion of women able to cope during early active labor was higher during the intervention period (p = 0.031). Women in the intervention period had 80% higher odds of coping (p = 0.032) compared to those in the control period. Notable differences in anxiety and coping with labor were observed among first-time mothers, younger women, and when siblings provided support. Midwife-provided orientation of birth companions on labor support lowers maternal anxiety and improves coping during labor. Findings could inform the planning and development of policies for the implementation of the presence of birth companions in similar low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Wodeya Wanyenze
- Department of Nursing, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara 403, Uganda
| | - Gorrette K. Nalwadda
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala 101, Uganda
| | - Josaphat K. Byamugisha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala 101, Uganda
| | - Patience A. Muwanguzi
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala 101, Uganda
| | - Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala 101, Uganda
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Drandić D, Hartmann K, Barata C, Torguet R. Parent organizations' experiences of the pandemic response in maternity care in thirteen European countries. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:71. [PMID: 36591331 PMCID: PMC9773267 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/156902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We surveyed changes to maternity care services in the first 17 months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 13 different European countries, from the perspective of national maternity service (parent) organizations advocating for a human rights approach to maternity services. A qualitative study was conducted in November 2020. An open-question survey was sent to national maternity service (parent) organizations and members of COST Action 18211 in Europe, asking about COVID-19 measures in maternity services (antenatally, intrapartum, postnatally, and overall satisfaction). From the open answers, 16 core issues were extracted. Between February and August 2021, semi-structured interviews with the national representatives of 14 parent member organizations in Europe were conducted, collecting details on overall national situations and changes due to COVID-19 measures. The reported experiences of parent organizations from 13 European countries show wide variations in epidemiological containment measures during the first 17 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Practices differed between facilities, resulting in emotional disquiet and confusion for parent-patients. Most countries maintained antenatal and postnatal care but restricted psychosocial support (antenatal and birth companions, visitors). Organizations from nine countries reported that women had to wear masks during labor, and all but two countries saw separations of mothers and babies. Most parent organizations described a need for more reliable information for new parents. During the pandemic, non-evidence-based practices were (re-) established in many settings, depriving women and families of many factors which evidence has shown to be essential for a positive birthing experience. Based on the findings, we consider the challenges in maternity services and propose a strategy for future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Drandić
- Roda - Parents in Action, Zagreb, Croatia,Human Rights in Childbirth, United States
| | | | - Catarina Barata
- Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Portuguese Association for the Rights of Women in Pregnancy and Birth, Lisbon, Portugal
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Childbirth fear, birth-related mindset and knowledge in non-pregnant women without birth experience. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:249. [PMID: 35331176 PMCID: PMC8951686 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04582-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childbirth fear and interventions during childbirth might be related to the mindset and knowledge non-pregnant women have regarding childbirth. Non-pregnant women before their first birth experience may be particularly at risk for childbirth fear. Methods The present study examined the expressions and associations of birth-related mindset, knowledge, and fear among 316 young, non-pregnant women without birth experience. They participated in a cross-sectional online study and completed the Childbirth Fear Prior to Pregnancy, the Mindset and Birth Questionnaire, and a birth knowledge test. Results Most women (44%) had a natural mindset and low fear, 29% had a medical mindset and low fear, 8% natural mindset and higher fear, and 19% medical mindset and higher fear. There were no differences in knowledge between the four groups. Some gaps in knowledge appeared concerning signs of beginning birth, and non-medical approaches to pain relief. From women with natural mindset and low childbirth fear, a higher percentage (13%) has already watched a birth, as compared to the other groups. Natural mindset was associated with lower childbirth fear, whereas knowledge was independent from childbirth fear. Higher knowledge was low associated with natural mindset. Mindset and childbirth fear were independent from age and education degree. Conclusions Gynecologists, midwifes and other health professionals may develop an awareness for birth as a natural event in their non-pregnant patients, and take birth-related fear into account in their counseling, with focus on women’s self-efficacy and non-medical approaches to pain relief.
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