[Childbirth preparation courses: obstetrical and neonatal evaluation]. / Corsi di preparazione al parto: valutazioni ostetriche e alla nascita.

ABSTRACT

From 1997, R.A.T. (Respiratory Autogenous Training) and "Stretching" training have been performed into the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Parma, for childbirth preparation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the obstetric characteristics of these women during labor and delivery. We compared the labour and delivery characteristics of 200 women who have completed antepartum R.A.T. and stretching training with 100 matched controls who have not. Preparation is significantly related to reduction in dystocic deliveries (operative vaginal delivery and cesarean section) and emergency cesarean section. Epidural analgesia (an obstetric procedure that is not routinely offered in the department of Parma) is more frequently performed in women prepared with ante-partum training. The neonatal outcome is good in all the three groups. "Prepared-childbirth" courses offer measurable clinical, obstetrical and neonatal advantages and psychological support, providing a useful link between prenatal ambulatory care and hospital labor and delivery care.