Objective: to describe women's experiences and perceptions of their first pregnancy.
Design, setting and participants: a qualitative study, using grounded theory. Data were obtained from 13 women whose interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed. Interviews were conducted in the women's homes on three occasions during pregnancy.
Findings: the women's experiences were varied and diverse. Most had difficulty coping with the physical and emotional symptoms of pregnancy. Loss of control caused anxiety. Need for support emerged as important. Antenatal education classes were favourably commented upon, however, the women wanted more information on breast feeding, baby feeding/sleeping patterns and behaviour, and self-care.
Key conclusions and implications for practice: midwives committed to a wellness, woman-centred model of care and willing to provide continuity of care should endeavour to implement this model in the hospital environment. Teaching in the ward or childbirth/parenting programmes should not be compromised by midwives who believe that pregnant women cannot learn. A comprehensive review of the philosophy, content, delivery and evaluation of current childbirth/parenthood programmes should be undertaken. Also, a review of the qualifications and aptitude of educators conducting the programmes.