Jeg visste hva som skjedde i kroppen min: En metasyntese om kunnskap som styrker førstegangsfødende i fødsel

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine what kind of knowledge that was important to first- time mothers to feel empowered in childbirth. The purpose is to create awareness around birth knowledge that can increase first-time mothers feeling of empowerment. Research question: “What kind of knowledge is important to first-time mothers to feel empowered in childbirth?” Method: A systematic literature search was conducted in Cinahl, Medline, Embase and Maternity and Infant Care. Six articles were included in the metasynthesis. The articles were analyzed by using Thomas and Harden (2008) method for thematic synthesis. Results: Four analytical themes were identified; Knowing childbirth as a normal process and the different phases of labour, childbirth stories from other women and a trustful relationship with own mother, coping strategies and trust in your own body and childbirth pain and various options for pain relief. Knowledge of birth as a natural process is empowering. Childbirth stories from other women gives birth knowledge by building a supportive community. Coping strategies and self-trust contributed to a positive attitude towards birth. First-time mothers were surprised by the intensity of birth pain and knowing different pain relief options empowered them. Conclusion: The findings in this study shows there are different kind of birth knowledge that empowers first-time mothers in childbirth. Knowledge about childbirth as a natural process was empowering, as they did not perceive the pain as frightening. First-time mothers gained practical technique knowledge by listening to childbirth stories from other women, that also shared their experience with the different phases in labour. Coping strategies and pain relief knowledge were important to maintain control and to feel empowered.