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Research conducted by Dartmouth College reveals that emotional support during childbirth significantly affects new mothers' stress levels. The study indicates that pregnant individuals who did not have their preferred support persons present during delivery experienced higher stress compared to those who did have their desired support.
Historically, humans have relied on familiar faces for assistance during childbirth, typically friends or family members whom they trust. This study emphasizes the importance of such support, as the absence of it can lead to heightened stress levels comparable to those experienced during a Cesarean section.
The findings were published in the journal Evolution, Medicine, & Public Health. Researchers point out that emotional support can lead to shorter labor times, reduced reliance on pain medication, and improved overall outcomes, including lower rates of C-sections.
One of the key factors in this support system is the hormone oxytocin, which promotes contractions and has calming effects. It also plays a crucial role in breastfeeding and bonding between parents and their newborns.
The study analyzed data from a survey conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, where 1,100 pregnant individuals shared their experiences regarding emotional support and healthcare access. Due to restrictions during the pandemic, many individuals were unable to have their desired support persons present, with approximately 30% reporting that at least one person they wished to be there could not attend the birth. The majority cited hospital policies as the reason for this absence.
Notably, 14% of the participants felt that their healthcare providers were preoccupied or unapproachable, which was correlated with increased levels of perceived stress during childbirth. Interestingly, participants with higher educational backgrounds reported greater stress, suggesting that education may influence expectations and experiences during delivery.
While the research included a predominantly white participant pool, the authors argue that the necessity for emotional support could be even more critical for individuals who face discrimination or mistreatment in healthcare settings. The study underscores the need for healthcare systems to prioritize emotional support during labor and delivery, especially during public health emergencies.
Overall, the findings of this research highlight that ensuring access to familiar and trusted individuals during childbirth is integral to enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes. The importance of emotional support should remain a focus for healthcare providers to facilitate a more supportive and less stressful birthing experience.
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