Humanisation in pregnancy and childbirth: A concept analysis

Aims and objectives To undertake a concept analysis of humanisation in pregnancy and childbirth. Background Humanisation in pregnancy and childbirth has historically been associated with women who do not require medical intervention. However, the increasing recognition of the importance of emotional and mental health and the physical outcome of pregnancy has meant that there is a need to identify clinical attributes and behaviours that contribute to a positive emotional outcome. Failure to support and protect the emotional health of the woman in pregnancy and childbirth can have effects on the long‐term mental health of the mother and the long‐term physical and mental health of the child. Design Concept Analysis Methods Eight‐step method of concept analysis proposed by Walker and Avant. Results Defining attributes include being a protagonist, human being interaction and benevolence. Antecedents identified were a recognition of women's rights, birth models, professional competence and the environment. Consequences were identified for women and healthcare professionals: for women, increased feelings of confidence, satisfaction of the experience and safety; and for healthcare professionals, increased satisfaction and confidence in their job and increased esteem in their profession. Conclusions Humanisation of pregnancy and childbirth now encompasses all women regardless of care pathway. Humanisation does not obstruct the prioritisation of life‐saving procedures or the use of medical intervention where required. Relevance to clinical practice Women who are able to identify their rights when accessing maternity care will be better equipped to ensure their care planning is individualised. The identification of humanised care practices, attributes and behaviours can support healthcare professionals in the clinical area who wish to identify a pathway of humanised care in pregnancy and birth.