Birthing With Others: Exploring the Efficacy of One-On-One Professional Support on Physiological Birth and Flow State.

One-on-one continuous professional support during labor is linked to higher rates of physiological birth and a heightened state of flow—an altered consciousness characterized by complete absorption and energized focus. In a survey of 788 women who had given birth, those supported one-on-one by a midwife (80.9%) or doula (65.7%) had natural childbirth more often and fewer medical interventions than those receiving conventional assistance (44.4% natural birth). Women with one-on-one support also reported the highest flow state levels. The findings validate a correlation between continuous professional support and physiological birth, and establish for the first time a connection between such support and an empowering flow experience during childbirth.

Study at a glance

Abstract

One-on-one professional support during labor is recognized for its role in promoting physiological birth, reducing interventions, and enhancing women's birthing experiences. Throughout physiological birth, many women encounter an altered state of consciousness. This state not only facilitates the normal birth process but also empowers women during and after childbirth. Recently, the flow-a mental state of complete absorption and energized focus in an activity, with a sense of control and high motivation-has been identified as a measure of this experience during physiological birth. This study aimed to discover whether one-on-one continuous professional support would improve the childbirth experience by increasing the likelihood of physiological birth and a heightened state of flow during childbirth. Women with childbirth experience were recruited through social media. Participants (n = 788) completed an online survey: the Flow State Scale (FSS) and a demographic questionnaire, including details about the professional support received during childbirth. One-on-one professional support was significantly associated with natural childbirth (midwife: 80.9%, doula: 65.7%) and lower medical interventions (midwife: 19.1%, doula: 34.3%) compared to conventional professional assistance (natural birth: 44.4%, interventions: 55.6%). A MANCOVA analysis revealed significant differences in flow state levels, with women receiving one-on-one support experiencing the highest flow state. This research validates the significant correlation between one-on-one support-provided by midwives or doulas-and physiological birth. It also establishes for the first time a correlation between women in childbirth receiving continuous one-on-one professional support and heightened flow state levels, signifying a positive and empowering birthing experience.