Parentcraft classes: do they affect outcome in childbirth?

Summary

Parentcraft classes are widely available. There has been little objective evidence of their usefulness. We conducted a prospective study to compare the various aspects of labour and delivery in primigravidae who did or did not attend parentcraft classes. Following delivery a record was kept of women's view about parentcraft classes. The results of 155 attenders and 88 non-attenders at parentcraft classes were compared. Non-attenders at parentcraft classes had significantly more admissions to the hospital because of false labour (X²test, P = 0·001). There was no statistical significant difference in attender and non-attender groups in cervical dilatation on admission in labour, use and type of analgesia. length of first and second stage of labour and mode of delivery. Howeter. 145 (93·5 per cent) women who attended parentcraft classes regarded them as useful. The aim of parentcraft classes needs to be defined clearly. This opportunity can be used to explain hospital policies, informaton on risks. benefits and alternatives to convention care and to help prospective parents to decide their own birth plans.