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CONFERENCE PROCEEDING
Communication with birthing mothers in delivery rooms in Germany: A qualitative interview study from the perspective of midwives
1
Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Health/Department of Nursing- Midwifery- and Therapy Sciences/Division III – Midwifery Science, Bochum, Germany
2
University of Heidelberg, Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg, Germany
Eur J Midwifery 2026;10(Supplement 1):A664
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Successful interaction during birth increases the chance of positive birth experiences based on the reliable presence and availability of a midwife, as well as effective communication between the birthing mother, midwife and doctors. In its recommendations for continuous care during childbirth, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a positive birth experience as a global healthcare goal and indicates effective communication as a central indicator of quality in obstetrics.
OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to describe the design of communication between birthing mother and midwives in the delivery room in Germany from the midwives' perspective and to suggest starting points for improving care.
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative interview study with 12 midwives in Germany was conducted. The analysis was carried out interpretively based on thematic analysis.
RESULTS:
Four overarching themes were identified in the interviews: communication strategies, professional self-image, relationship building, and disruptions in communication. Communication was based on conversations and counselling, emphasizing the sensitive motivation of birthing mothers in recognition of the effects of language. Eye contact, touch, conversations with and about the baby as well as language with and in pictures were also central for the midwives. Overall, a conscious approach to communication, especially in regard to relationship building, was fundamental. Nevertheless, tension between the professional self-image of midwives and clinical routines was comprehensible.
CONCLUSIONS:
The strategies in communication used by the participating midwives show parallels to effective communication according to WHO recommendations. The interviews revealed a focus by the midwives on resource and needs orientation and, as a result, on empathic birth support which are considered core competencies of woman-centered midwifery care.
KEY MESSAGE:
By promoting women-centered care and supporting midwives in their professional self-image, disruptions in communication during birth can be counteracted and improve communication with birthing mothers. Poster session 2 (Group A)
Successful interaction during birth increases the chance of positive birth experiences based on the reliable presence and availability of a midwife, as well as effective communication between the birthing mother, midwife and doctors. In its recommendations for continuous care during childbirth, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a positive birth experience as a global healthcare goal and indicates effective communication as a central indicator of quality in obstetrics.
OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to describe the design of communication between birthing mother and midwives in the delivery room in Germany from the midwives' perspective and to suggest starting points for improving care.
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative interview study with 12 midwives in Germany was conducted. The analysis was carried out interpretively based on thematic analysis.
RESULTS:
Four overarching themes were identified in the interviews: communication strategies, professional self-image, relationship building, and disruptions in communication. Communication was based on conversations and counselling, emphasizing the sensitive motivation of birthing mothers in recognition of the effects of language. Eye contact, touch, conversations with and about the baby as well as language with and in pictures were also central for the midwives. Overall, a conscious approach to communication, especially in regard to relationship building, was fundamental. Nevertheless, tension between the professional self-image of midwives and clinical routines was comprehensible.
CONCLUSIONS:
The strategies in communication used by the participating midwives show parallels to effective communication according to WHO recommendations. The interviews revealed a focus by the midwives on resource and needs orientation and, as a result, on empathic birth support which are considered core competencies of woman-centered midwifery care.
KEY MESSAGE:
By promoting women-centered care and supporting midwives in their professional self-image, disruptions in communication during birth can be counteracted and improve communication with birthing mothers. Poster session 2 (Group A)
| eISSN: | 2585-2906 |
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