Study title

Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.To look at the experience of childbearing from three viewpoints: first and foremost from that of childbearing women and, in addition, taking into account the views and experiences of midwives and consultant obstetricians.Main Topics:Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions A)Mothers Information about previous pregnancies. Details of recent pregnancy including: arrangements for the birth; ante-natal care; preparation classes; medical symptoms experienced; worries and anxieties; sources of information; desire for further knowledge; whether induction/pain relief discussed and attitude towards. Details of baby's birth including: whether labour spontaneous or induced; reasons for induction and feelings; whether labour was accelerated and reasons; whether received pain relief; whether baby's heart monitored; whether husband present; accessibility of doctor/nurse; opinion of help received. Length of post-natal stay, contact with baby, method of feeding, problems/feelings following birth and on returning home. Comparison of experience with previous pregnancies, attitude to future maternity care. Whether information offered about birth control, choice of contraceptive, whether more children desired, attitude to abortion. Additional information was collected separately from women who had their babies at home. Details included: post-natal hospital admissions; accessibility of doctor or midwife; whether left alone at any time; who attended the delivery. B)Obstetricians Perceived advantages and disadvantages of induction, whether induction would be recommended given certain circumstances, methods used, % of births induced or accelerated, % of births induced for non-medical reasons, who explains procedure to patient. Effect of induction on baby's health/mother-baby relationship/mother's health. Opinion of use of epidurals, % of women who receive one/are offered one and whether this makes induction more likely,...