Abstract
Background
Pregnant women are entitled to quality care during pregnancy. Some health districts
offer a variety of maternity care models but, not all women are aware of what is available
and there is limited research on the experiences of women within their chosen or allocated
model of care.
Aim
The aim of this integrative review is to explore the available literature on women’s
experiences of the model of care accessed during pregnancy.
Method
A database search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, OVID, JBI and Cochrane Database was
conducted to identify original research articles published in English between 2011
and 2021. In total, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria.
Findings
The included papers came from nine different countries and reported on eight different
models of care. Following analysis of the articles one overarching theme ‘Model of
care matters’, and six sub themes were identified: 1.‘Choosing a model’, 2.‘Learning
about pregnancy and birth’, 3.‘Being known’, 4.‘Making social and emotional connections’,
5.‘Receiving enabling or disabling care’ and 6.‘Integrated care is best’. Some women
disclosed that they had no choice in the model they were allocated, while others stated
they were not provided with information about all available models of care.
Conclusion
A lack of integrated care between medical and midwifery models led to feelings of
dissatisfaction and distress during pregnancy. Positive experiences were reported
when women developed a connection with the care provider. The development of a well-informed
decision aid could alleviate deficits of information, and clarify the subtle differences
that occur within various models.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 13, 2023
Accepted:
December 23,
2022
Received in revised form:
December 7,
2022
Received:
August 17,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
