Predicting Antenatal Class Attendance: Attitudes Of Self And Others

Abstract

Attendance at antenatal classes has been found to improve birth outcomes, yet many women do not attend. This study investigates the extent to which we can predict attendance and whether women's expectations of classes are confirmed by their subsequent experiences. Intention to attend was the most predictive variable in the 529 primigravidas women studied. It was best predicted by women's general attitudes about coping and the value of attendance, rather than by specific expectations of classes. Women's perceptions of the attitudes of the baby's father and of the hospital doctor were also important. Although there were demographic differences between attenders and non-attenders, they were less predictive than attitudes. These findings are consistent with the Theory of Reasoned Action. Women's experiences of classes were much more positive than their expectations. Giving this information to women and their partners may change their attitudes and, hence, attendance.