Role for the Psychologist in Childbirth Preparation

A survey was conducted among 152 new mothers who had been trained in psychoprophylaxis to assess the need for psychologists to become involved in childbirth preparation. The results indicated that there was a demand for psychologists to enter this field. A role for the psychologist was suggested in terms of education; participation in the health team by way of assessment and psychotherapy with pregnant women; providing emotional support for selected women during labour; leading groups for prospective parents which aimed at promoting personal emotional growth; and doing research in this field.