Childbirth

Childbirth is a seminal event in parents' lives. This event is marked by excitement, anticipation, and oftentimes fear. Childbirth is a fundamentally uncertain experience, with the process and outcome difficult, if not impossible, to predict. These factors make communication between mothers and providers during pregnancy and childbirth critically important. However, the manner in which providers and mothers communicate about childbirth and pregnancy varies widely, and can be dependent on the background, training, and philosophy of different health care providers. [Page 168]This is particularly true with respect to how the inherent uncertainty of childbirth is navigated by mothers and providers. Communication can vary based on the provider a mother chooses. Key communication differences include how decisions are made and how uncertainty is navigated.