Military women ; Prenatal care ; Birth outcomes ; Adequacy
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the adequacy of antenatal care (ANC) and childbirth outcomes and to identify factors affecting childbirth outcomes among military women. Methods: A total of 132 military women participated in this cross-sectional survey. The data were collected between September 21 and November 7, 2018 using structured questionnaires administered online. Results: The mean score for perception of birth experience (PBE) was 101.42±16.44 out of 145, and 21.2 percent of the respondents experienced postpartum complications. The significant factors that influenced PBE were living type, spouse support, number of deliveries, obstetric risk factors, type of childbirth, working area, work-related pregnancy stress, and existence of a co-worker with experience of pregnancy and birth. Service branch, prepregnancy medical risk factors, and adequacy of ANC are factors affecting maternal complications. Conclusion: Findings emphasize that the relationship with surrounding people have an effect on the adequacy of ANC and childbirth outcomes in military women. It is necessary to take a multifaceted approach and involve the spouse and colleagues surrounding pregnant military women when developing intervention programs or policy to improve childbirth outcomes.