‘Getting it right first time’: The effects of anxiety and fear on a birthing woman

Abstract

Throughout pregnancy, women in the UK are assured of support and care in labour. Women are however advised to stay at home for as long as possible, but to contact maternity services when they need advice or help. The reality for some women is that they are turned away from maternity services, told that they are not yet in labour, or not advanced enought in labour to warrent admission to their chosen place for birth. This has devastating consequences for some women. As Freya’s birth stories unfold, the long lasting impact of a poor first birth experience for women, shows how not getting it right first time influences their decisions for future births.