Research highlights benefits of antenatal relaxation classes for well-being

The study explored the perspectives of women and their partners to determine whether a single antenatal relaxation class (ARC) could improve psychological well-being and childbirth experiences. These classes provide expectant parents with information about pregnancy, labour, childbirth, and early parenthood.

The results indicated that participants viewed the class as a “turning point,” where expectant mothers became more confident, equipped, and less fearful and anxious about childbirth. Measurements of maternal confidence, mental well-being, fear of childbirth, and anxiety before and after the class showed significant improvements, which were sustained post-birth.

Participants reported gaining a greater understanding of the physiological processes of childbirth and practicing relaxation techniques, which led to the recognition of their inner resources that could be tapped into during pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood.

The study concluded that attending just one three-hour antenatal relaxation class can significantly improve perinatal psychological well-being and childbirth experiences. It recommended that ARC classes be offered by the NHS to ensure effective maternity healthcare provision.

Dr. Mo Tabib, a midwifery lecturer from RGU who led the study, said: “Our research is hugely significant as, for the first time, we have a real understanding of how and why antenatal relaxation classes can benefit expectant families. We found that participants who attended just one antenatal relaxation class developed a greater sense of calmness and self-care throughout their pregnancy and childbirth. This enhanced their confidence in their abilities, as well as their mental well-being and childbirth experiences, which was sustained well after birth.

“This week, Healthcare Improvement Scotland has announced the roll-out of unannounced inspections of maternity units in Scotland starting next year. It is vital that NHS Health Boards incorporate antenatal relaxation classes as part of their maternity services to develop effective healthcare for expectant mothers, their partners, and their infants.”

The study, conducted in NHS Grampian from 2020 to 2022, involved 105 childbearing women who participated in interviews or online surveys. Researchers generated three sets of online surveys at pre-class, two weeks post-class, and 4-8 weeks post-birth. They found that 95% of participants who attended one antenatal relaxation class used the learned techniques, with 97.6% and 84.5% perceiving a positive influence on pregnancy and childbirth, respectively.

The study provides valuable insights for maternity services seeking to develop effective health-promoting antenatal education and shows that ARC can positively influence maternal emotions and childbirth experiences.

NHS Grampian offers online antenatal relaxation workshops to pregnant women and their birth partners, though not all health boards do. It is hoped that the evidence from this research will standardise antenatal education provided by maternity services across Scotland, thereby enhancing the well-being of expectant mothers, their partners, and infants.

Image credit Valeria Zoncoll on Unsplash