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Background: The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is a widely used, psychometrically robust and brief self-report measure of birth experience from the mothers perspective. The current study sought to adapt and validate the BSS-R for partners, evaluating key psychometric properties, including the underlying tri-dimensional factor structure of stress experienced, personal attributes and quality of care., Aim: To translate and validate a Czech speaking partner version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) and examine key measurement characteristics and association with fundamental clinical outcome variables., Method: Following translation of the UK partner BSS-R into Czech, the Czech Partner BSS-R (CZP-BSS-R) was administered to 225 partners of women who had given birth within the past 5-years. Key psychometric characteristics were examined, including factor structure, divergent and known-groups discriminant validity and internal reliability., Results: Established measurement models of the BSS-R observed in mothers were found to offer an excellent fit to partner data. The CZP-BSS-R also demonstrated excellent validity and reliability characteristics., Conclusions: The CZP-BSS-R was found to be valid and reliable, with results from Czech partners 'mirroring' factor structure and key validity characteristics previously established in Czech mothers. The BSS-R validated for completion by Czech speaking mothers now has a matched version available for use with Czech speaking partners.

Objective: This study aims to develop a Portuguese-language version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) for clinical and research use in Portugal (PT-BSS-R). The factor structure, its invariance across depression levels, and the internal consistency of the PT-BSS-R were analysed., Method: A sample of 1373 Portuguese-speaking postpartum women completed a sociodemographic and clinical form, the PT-BSS-R, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale through an online survey tool. Four competing models were tested through confirmatory factor analyses and bifactor model-based psychometric indices were calculated. The internal consistency and the divergent/convergent validity are analysed., Results: The psychometric properties of PT-BSS-R were found to be generally excellent. Both the original correlated three-factor model and the bifactor model exhibited a good fit to the data. Results from the bifactor model support the use of both the BSS-R total score and the subscale scores. Exemplary invariance findings were observed between groups stratified on the basis of depression screening. PT-BSS-R has demonstrated both divergent and convergent validity as well as internal consistency., Conclusion: PT-BSS-R is a psychometrically robust measure of birth satisfaction appropriate for clinical and research use in Portugal.

Background: Evidence relating maternal birth experience to a range of maternal and neonatal outcomes is increasingly compelling. Consequently valid and reliable self-report of birth experience from the mothers perspective is critical., Aim: The current study sought to translate and validate a Hungarian-language version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R)., Method: Following forward and backwards translation into Hungarian, the Hungarian BSS-R (HU-BSS-R) was administered to women in a major Transylvanian hospital maternity unit within 72 h postpartum. Key psychometric characteristics were then examined in relation to factor structure, divergent and convergent validity, internal consistency, and known-groups discriminant validity., Results: Two-hundred and thirty-two women completed the HU-BSS-R. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed the HU-BSS-R to offer an excellent fit to data for the established tri-dimensional measurement model. The HU-BSS-R was also found to offer excellent convergent and divergent validity and known-groups discriminant validity. No significant differences were observed between internal consistency observations between the current study and the original UK validation study., Conclusions: The HU-BSS-R is a valid and reliable translation of the original BSS-R, it has proved itself to have excellent psychometric properties and is suitable for use in the Hungarian maternity context., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Background: The Vietnam midwifery report acknowledges that while health services are available in Vietnam, there is growing need to increase levels of respectful maternal care provided to women in labour., Objective: In conjunction with newborns Vietnam charity, our objective was to assess the perceived continuous professional development needs of midwives working in Vietnam to inform development of an intranatal respectful maternal care education resource., Method: A qualitative exploratory descriptive method was used to conduct a training needs analysis, which identified perceived education requirements of midwives in Vietnam in relation to providing respectful maternal care., Participants: A convenience sample of midwives (n = 49) participated in the study., Data-Collection: Eight on-line focus groups were carried out in four hospitals (maternity units) across Vietnam using WebEx, with the interview schedule informed by the World Health Organization guide for delivering intrapartum care for a positive birth experience., Data-Analysis: Data were transcribed into English and analysed using the 6-steps of thematic analysis outlined by Braun and Clark., Findings: Three themes and 9 sub-themes were developed from the data. The first theme addressed aspects that contribute towards creating a positive birth experience; the second theme observed barriers to changing practice; and the third theme noted that there are a variety of preferred teaching methods., Conclusions: In response to the training needs analysis, a respectful maternal care education resource has been designed to transform selected areas of intranatal care in Vietnam. Integrating the respectful maternal care educational resource into midwives' continuous professional development in Vietnam is intended to increase women's rights to have safe childbirth, which accommodates choice and control, and promotes a positive birth experience., Recommendations for Practice: Post-completion and evaluation, we hope that the intranatal respectful maternal care educational resource will be rolled out to all practising midwives in Vietnam., Competing Interests: Declarations of interest None., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: The 10-item Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is a quick and easy survey instrument recommended by the International Consortium for Health Outcome Measures as the tool of choice for measuring women's birth satisfaction., Aim: To translate and validate a Vietnamese-language version of the BSS-R., Method: A quantitative cross-sectional method was used to gather data post translation and back-translation of a Vietnamese version of the BSS-R (VN-BSS-R). Data collected were psychometrically evaluated using key indices of validity and reliability., Participants: Vietnamese women who were within one month postpartum of birth ( N  = 383) took part in the study., Results: Findings illustrate that a two-factor model offered excellent psychometric properties. With the two-factor VN-BSS-R, five items loaded onto a subscale 'Positive birth experiences' and the other five onto a second subscale 'Negative birth experiences'. This two-factor model offered a fit to data (root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.07, 90% confidence interval [CI] [0.05, 0.09], root square mean residual [RMSE] = 0.04 and comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.97). Mean scores for the exploratory factor analysis [EFA]-derived 'positive' and 'negative' sub-scales were 17.12 ( SD 2.34) and 8.40 ( SD 4.18) respectively., Conclusion: The translated and validated VN-BSS-R is a psychometrically robust tool for measuring birth satisfaction in Vietnamese postpartum women.The VN-BSS-R is available for use to measure experiences and perceptions of intrapartum care received by Vietnamese women.

Background: Satisfaction with the birth experience has been established to be critical for the wellbeing of the mother. The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is a brief and psychometrically robust multi-dimensional self-report tool designed to assess birth experience. The current investigation sought to translate and validate a Czech Republic version of the BSS-R (CZ-BSS-R)., Methods: Following translation psychometric assessment of the CZ-BSS-R was undertaken using a cross-sectional design. A between-subjects design was incorporated in order to evaluate known-groups validity evaluation of the translated measure. Four hundred and sixty-five Czech-speaking women within the Czech Republic took part in the study. Confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken and divergent and convergent validity and internal consistency characteristics also evaluated., Results: The CZ-BSS-R was observed to have excellent psychometric properties and conceptually and measurement faithful to the original English-language measure. Consistent with previous investigations using the BSS-R significant differences were found in scores as a function of delivery type., Conclusions: The CZ-BSS-R is a valid, robust and reliable measure of birth experience and suitable for use with Czech-speaking women in the Czech Republic. The study highlighted that instrument and emergency Caesarean section were associated with a lower level of birth satisfaction compared to vaginal delivery.

Background: Up to 39% of women who experience perinatal bereavement proceed to develop Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder (PTSD), with this large proportion meriting treatment. Before setting-up a treatment service for postnatal women who are experiencing psychological trauma, it is important to identify what therapies have been used in-the-past to address this problem., Aim: To scope for research that has implemented therapies to treat psychological trauma post perinatal bereavement, for potential inclusion in a flexible treatment package., Method: A scoping review mapped coverage, range, and type of research that has reported on prior therapies used to treat psychological trauma post perinatal bereavement., Findings: Due to the dearth of papers that directly addressed perinatal bereavement, we widened the scope of the review to view what treatments had been used to treat psychological trauma post-childbirth. Out of 23 studies that report on effectiveness of therapies used to treat psychological trauma post-childbirth, only 4-focused upon treating PTSD post perinatal bereavement (3 effective/1 ineffective). Successful treatments were reported by Kersting et al. (2013), who found CBT effective at reducing PTSD symptoms post-miscarriage, termination for medical reasons, and stillbirth (n = 33 & n = 115), and Navidian et al. (2s017)) found that 4-sessions of grief-counselling reduced trauma symptoms post-stillbirth in (n = 50) women. One study by Huberty et al. (2020found on-line yoga to be ineffective at reducing PTSD symptoms post-stillbirth., Conclusions: A dearth of research has explored effectiveness of therapies for treating psychological trauma post perinatal bereavement and post-childbirth, with need to develop and test a research informed flexible counselling package.

Background: Recent observations suggest birth satisfaction may be significantly associated with postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PP-PTSD). The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is increasingly used Internationally as a short, valid and reliable multi-dimensional measure of birth experience. The current study sought to develop a Dutch version of the BSS-R (D-BSS-R) for clinical and research application in the Netherlands., Methods: Post-translation, a cross-sectional design with an embedded between-subjects component was used to evaluate key indices of validity and reliability of the D-BSS-R in a purposive sampled cohort of 244 Dutch-speaking women in the Netherlands. Confirmatory factor analysis, divergent, convergent and known-groups discriminant validity were evaluated as was the internal consistency of the measure., Results: The D-BSS-R was found to be a generally valid and reliable measure of birth experience with the key measurement characteristics of the original English-language measure transferring well to the Dutch context. Statistically significant negative correlations were observed between all D-BSS-R sub-scales and a validated measure of PTSD., Conclusions: The D-BSS-R represents a valid and reliable measure of birth experience suitable and appropriate for use in the Netherlands. The study corroborates previous suggestions of linkage between birth satisfaction and PP-PTSD using a robust and diagnostically valid measure of trauma.

Aim: Critical to maternal outcome and development of a healthy and relationship between mother and baby, is the woman's perception of her birth experience. The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) has been demonstrated to be psychometrically robust, easily administered, and scored self-report measure of birth experience. Aim of the study was to translate the UK-BSS-R into Hindi, collect data, and psychometrically validate an Indian (Hindi)-BSS-R., Methods: Psychometric assessment of the Indian (Hindi)-BSS-R was undertaken following translation using a cross-sectional design. Evaluation of known-groups validity was undertaken using an embedded between-subjects component. Data were collected from (n = 312) postnatal Hindi speaking women in India. Measurement characteristics were assessed using confirmatory factor analysis, divergent validity and internal consistency analysis., Results: The measurement properties of the Indian (Hindi)-BSS-R were observed to be equivocal, with the established tri-dimensional measurement model not achieving best fit to data. Instead, an alternative two-factor model offered an excellent fit to data. Significant differences were observed between Indian (Hindi)-BSS-R scores and family type and gestation term status, which highlights the relevance of these contextual aspects to the Indian birth experience. Internal consistency was observed to be low on some sub-scales, indicating the potential need for future revision., Conclusions: The Indian (Hindi)-BSS-R is a measure of birth experience, which accepting some measurement caveats, is acceptable for use with Hindi speaking women in India. Further research is required to determine if modification of some of the items is required to improve internal consistency., (© 2023 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.)

Aim: To explore factors that influence fathers' experiences of childbirth and implications for their subsequent postnatal mental health., Background: Fathers who attend the birth of their baby often have very rewarding experiences. However, those who witness a difficult birth may progress to develop subsequent mental health problems, e.g., trauma symptoms that can affect future relationships with partner and infant., Method: A narrative systematic review of literature was carried out. Two overarching themes were identified, each with 3 underpinning sub-themes: (1) Interpersonal relationships with maternity care professionals; (1b) Communication; (1b) Feeling isolated during labour; (1c) Being prepared; (2) The aftermath; (2a) Support provision; (2b) Effects on relationships; (2c) Psychological trauma., Conclusions: Findings emphasise that good communication between fathers and midwives is a fundamental part of providing excellent care before, during and post-childbirth, as it can reduce partners' feelings of isolation, improve their relationships and limit development and impact of psychological trauma., Recommendations for Practice: It is important to develop more on-line partner sites, parenthood education programmes and support groups, which include education about how to prevent, recognise, support and treat mental health complications. Also, further in-depth qualitative studies would enhance understanding of specific aspects of labour that traumatise fathers., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors whose names are listed above have no affiliations with or involvement in organizations or entities with a financial interest (such as grants, membership, employment, consultancies, or equity interest), or non-financial interest (such as personal or professional relationships, affiliations, knowledge, or beliefs) in the topic matter discussed in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To validate the Italian-language version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) and report key measurement properties of the tool. To evaluate the impact of antenatal class attendance on BSS-R assessed birth satisfaction., Background: Maternal satisfaction is one of the standards of care defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to improve the quality of services. The BSS-R is a multi-dimensional self-report measure of the experience of labour and birth., Methods: Cross-sectional instrument evaluation design examining factor structure and key aspects of validity and reliability. Embedded between-subjects design to examine known-group discriminant validity and the impact of antenatal class attendance on BSS-R sub-scale and total scores as dependent variables. After giving birth, 297 women provided data for analysis., Results: The Italian version of the BSS-R (I-BSS-R) was the key study measure. The established three-factor and bi-factor models of the BSS-R were found to offer an excellent fit to the data. Comparison of the tri-dimensional measurement model and the bi-factor model of the BSS-R found no significant differences between models. Women who attended antenatal classes had significantly lower stress experienced during childbearing sub-scale scores (I-BSS-R SE), compared to those who did not. Good convergent, divergent validity and known-groups discriminant validity were established for the I-BSS-R. Internal consistency observations were found to be sub-optimal in this population., Conclusions: On all key psychometric indices, with the exception of internal consistency that requires further investigation, the I-BSS-R was found to be a valid translation of the original BSS-R. The impact of antenatal classes on birth satisfaction warrants further research.

Objective: Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised Indicator (BSS-RI) is a short selfreport instrument designed to measure satisfaction of the childbearing women's experiences of labour and its outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Persian version of BSS-RI in Iranian mothers., Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 396 mothers in Tehran, Iran, between July and September 2017. The mothers were administered the BSS-RI, and a demographic questionnaire. Internal consistency of the BSS-RI was examined with Cronbach's alpha, construct validity was evaluated via exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and divergent validity was examined by correlating the BSS-RI with gestational age., Results: The EFA results demonstrated a two-factor structure corresponding to the Stress of Childbearing and Quality of Care domains of the structure proposed by provider. The Cronbach's alpha for Stress of Childbearing and Quality of Care subscales and total BSS-RI were 0.665, 0.847, and 0.563, respectively. The mean of BSS-RI total score was 6.16 (SD = 2.60), and the Stress of Childbearing and Quality of Care subscales were 2.71 (SD = 2.39), and 3.45 (SD = 1.11), respectively. The BSS-RI showed no significant correlation with the gestational age, confirming divergent validity., Conclusion: Like the original English version, the Persian version of the BSS-RI is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring birth satisfaction in Iranian mothers. It can also be used as short and easy to administer tool for assessment of birth satisfaction in large sample survey research.

Background: In several countries, midwifery students undertake continuity of care experiences as part of their pre-registration education. This is thought to enable the development of a woman-centred approach, as well as providing students with the skills to work in continuity models. A comprehensive overview of factors that may promote optimal learning within continuity experiences is lacking., Aim: To identify barriers and facilitators to optimal learning within continuity experiences, in order to provide a holistic overview of factors that may impact on, modify and determine learning within this educational model., Methods: An integrative literature review was undertaken using a five-step framework which established the search strategy, screening and eligibility assessment, and data evaluation processes. Quality of included literature was critically appraised and extracted data were analysed thematically., Findings: Three key themes were identified. A central theme was relationships, which are instrumental in learning within continuity experiences. Conflict or coherence represents the different models of care in which the continuity experience is situated, which may conflict with or cohere to the intentions of this educational model. The final theme is setting the standards, which emerged from the lack of evidence and guidance to inform the implementation of student placements within continuity experiences., Conclusion: The learning from continuity experiences must be optimised to prepare students to be confident, competent and enthusiastic to work in continuity models, ultimately at the point of graduation. This will require an evidence-based approach to inform clear guidance around the intent, implementation, documentation and assessment of continuity experiences., (Copyright © 2020 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Childbirth satisfaction may positively affect maternal intention to have a future pregnancy and preference to have a cesarean. We translate the UK-Birth-Satisfaction-Scale-Revised (UK-BSS-R) into Persian and validate an Iranian-BSS-R for future use in this population. In total, 784 mothers who were hospitalized in postpartum wards completed the Persian version of the BSS-R. The confirmatory factor analysis on 10-items scale confirmed the conventional three-factor structure. The Cronbach's alpha of the Iranian-BSS-R subscales and the total score were within the range of 0.53-0.76. Our findings provide further evidence that the BSS-R is an internationally reliable and valid instrument to measure birth satisfaction.

Background: There is good evidence that Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC) is associated with improved clinical outcomes, greater maternal satisfaction, and improved work experiences for midwives. Changes made to the organisation require careful implementation, with on-going evaluation to monitor progress., Aim: To develop a survey tool that incorporates several validated scales, which was used to collect baseline data prior to implementing a high-quality Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC) model in Scotland (Hewitt et al., 2019). This tool gathered data about midwives' personal and professional wellbeing prior to service reorganisation, with a longitudinal study intended to measure change in midwives' reportage across time. This paper reports the baseline data-collection., Methods: An on-line survey was shared with practising midwives (n=321) in Scotland via the NHS intranet, verbally, email, and paper. The survey elicited midwives views about Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC); values and philosophies of care; attitudes towards their professional role; personal and professional demographics; quality of life and wellbeing. Psychometric attitudinal scales were scored and free text comments themed according to positive/negative opinions of the new Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC) model to highlight key concerns to be addressed and identify change barriers or facilitators., Findings: The majority of midwives indicated support for philosophies underpinning Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC), which includes physiological birth and providing autonomous midwifery care. Participants also indicated positive attitudes towards their current role and organisation, with some worrying about how the organisation was going to implement the changes required. Worries included, receiving an overburdening workload, being deskilled in certain areas of midwifery practice, and lack of support were litigation to arise., Conclusion: Midwives support the values and philosophies that underpin Continuity of Midwifery Care (CMC), yet worry about organisational change involved in evolving systems of care. Hence, management require to implement strategies to reduce fears. For example, delivering accurate and honest information, enabling midwives to plan, design and implement changes themselves, and providing emotional and material help., (Crown Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Maternal childbirth dissatisfaction has short- and long-term negative effects on the mothers' health and life, as well as on relation with her child and family. Due to lack of studies in Iran and other counties, we aimed to determine pre- and during- labour predictors of low birth satisfaction., Methods: Seven hundred women with low risk singleton pregnancy participated in this prospective analytical study. The participants were hospitalized for vaginal delivery with fetus in cephalic presentation and gestational age of 37 0 -41 6 at two teaching centers in Tabriz (Iran). Woman characteristics, anxiety state (using Spielberger inventory) and dehydration were assessed at cervical dilatation of 4-6 cm. Iranian (Persian) birth satisfaction scale-revised was applied 12-24 h after birth. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the predictors., Results: Excluding 26 women who were outliers, 674 women were analyzed. The mean birth satisfaction score was 23.8 (SD 6.5) from an attainable score of 0-40. The during-labour predictors of low birth satisfaction score were severe and moderate anxiety, labour dystocia, insufficient support by staff, vaginal birth with episiotomy and tear, emergency cesarean section, labour induction and labour augmentation with oxytocin, and woman dehydration. The pre-labour predictors included being primiparous, sexual and emotional violence during pregnancy, gestational age of 40 0 -41 6 , preference for cesarean section, no attendance at pregnancy classes, and insufficient household income. The proportion of the variance explained by the during-labour variables was 75%, by pre-labour variables was 14% and by overall was 76%., Conclusions: The controllable during-labour predictors explains most of the variance of the satisfaction score. It seems that responding to women's physical and psychological needs during labour and applying less interventions could improve women's childbirth satisfaction.

Objective and background : The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is a multi-dimensional measure which is recommended by international clinical guidelines for global use as the birth satisfaction outcome measure of choice. The current investigation sought to develop a Hebrew version of the BSS-R for use in the Jewish-Israeli context and examine the relationship between BSS-R domains and the perception of the experience of labour as traumatic. Methods : Following review, translation, and back-translation for linguistic equivalence, a Hebrew version of the BSS-R (H-BSS-R) was prepared and psychometrically evaluated using key indices of validity and reliability. Complete multivariate normal data from 288 first-time Jewish Israeli mothers within two years after childbirth was entered into the analysis. Results : The H-BSS-R was found to have a good fit to the BSS-R tridimensional measurement model, excellent internal consistency, divergent and known-group discriminant validity. Moreover, women who experienced their labour as traumatic had significantly lower H-BSS-R subscale scores than women who reported that their birth experience was non-traumatic. Conclusion : The H-BSS-R is a robust and valid measure suitable for use with Jewish-Israeli women, as well as for investigating the relationship between traumatic labour and birth satisfaction.

Background: Around 4% of women develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Post Childbirth (PTSD-PC). During childbirth a woman's perception of her care provider's interpersonal verbal and nonverbal relationship behaviours, termed 'Quality of Provider Interaction' are significantly associated with the development of PTSD-PC., Aims: To understand how women who develop PTSD-PC and midwives, experience their interactions during care provision. In particular, how they feel during their interactions and what this means to them., Methods: The qualitative method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis that incorporates a reflective approach, was used to gain deep understanding of the lived experience of care provider interaction. Six women who met full diagnostic criteria for PTSD-PC and six midwives who provided intrapartum care, participated in individual face-to-face interviews., Results: Two key findings were identified: 1) Failing to recognise and meet the human needs of both women and midwives, results in poor quality interactions from midwives and poor perception of care provider interaction by women; 2) The study groups of women and midwives both identified the quality of their relationship as central to positive interactions. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: (1) Raise the status of psychological wellbeing for childbearing women and make it of equal importance to physical wellbeing, with clear focus upon care provider interaction; (2) Create a midwife centred system that enables midwives to provide optimal care provider interaction and improve relationship-based care; and (3) Challenge underlying toxic cultures that currently persist in the maternity services system, which undermine the work of midwives and consequently the experience of women., Conclusion: Failure to recognise and meet the human and relationship needs of both childbearing women and midwives contributes to poor care provider interactions offered by midwives and negative perceptions of care provider interactions by women. In response, NHS maternity services need to highlight the importance of the quality of care provider interaction alongside perinatal psychological wellbeing. This requires improved working environments for midwives, so they can optimise their quality of interaction with childbearing women. This will in turn impact upon the incidence and levels of trauma and PTSD-PC experienced by women., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background : Postnatal depression (PND) is a key cause of maternal morbidity, with current systems of initial recognition in the UK detecting only 50% of cases. In attempts to predict those potentially at risk, this review suggests a novel approach. Aim : Implementing the concept of 'ideal mother' versus 'real mother', and asking the woman to compare their 'ideal self' against 'existent self', the aim of this instrument development review was to determine themes from the literature that relate to women's perceptions of self as a mother, and from this identification develop questions for inclusion within a proposed new measure entitled the Self-Image as Mother Scale (SIMS). Method : A scoping review of the literature was carried out to identify themes considered to affect perception of self as mother, and from this identification, evidence-based questions for inclusion in the SIMS were developed. Findings : Themes identified included (1) marital dissatisfaction, (2) inadequate partner support, (3) lack of family support, (4) socioeconomic status and associated poverty, (5) concern about infant, (6) antenatal/postnatal complications, (7) acceptance of infant gender, (8) history of mental health problems, (9) unplanned pregnancy. Conclusions : From this scoping review 18 questions were developed for inclusion in the SIMS, which will then be evaluated for psychometric properties, scale refinement and validation.

Objective: To translate and validate a Spanish-language version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) and describe key measurement properties., Design: A cross-sectional instrument validation design examining factor structure, validity and reliability., Setting: Three public hospital sites in Spain., Participants: 202 women who had given birth within the past four weeks provided complete questionnaire data for analysis., Measurements and Findings: Measures included the Spanish version of the BSS-R (S-BSS-R) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The tri-dimensional measurement model of the BSS-R was found to offer a good fit to Spanish data. Known-groups discriminant validity was found to be excellent with women experiencing a non-intervention delivery having higher S-BSS-R scores (p < 0.05) compared to those having an intervention. Women who had no pain control were found to have greater S-BSS-R total and S-BSS-R women's attributes and stress experienced sub-scale scores compared to those who received pain control (p < 0.05). Total scale internal reliability was also found to be acceptable. Evidence for good divergent and convergent validity was also found across total and sub-scale S-BSS-R scores., Key Conclusions: The S-BSS-R was found to have generally good to excellent psychometric properties and represents a valid and reliable translation of the original version of the BSS-R for use in Spanish-speaking populations. The development of the S-BSS-R enables comparison of birth satisfaction with international study data where the BSS-R is used., Implications for Research: The relationship of both delivery type and pain control to birth satisfaction represent important areas for further research., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective and Background: The 10-item Birth Satisfaction Scale - Revised (BSS-R) is increasingly being used internationally as the instrument of choice for the assessment of birth satisfaction. There remains conjecture over the most appropriate way to score the instrument; subscale scores overall total score, or both approaches. The current study sought to clarify this issue by examining the measurement characteristics of the United States version of the BSS-R from a large data set., Methods: Secondary analysis of a data matrix from a large sample US BSS-R validation study (N = 2116) using structural equation modelling., Results: A bi-factor model revealed an excellent fit to data (χ 2 (df = 25)  = 208.21, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.06, SRMR = 0.04), demonstrating relative independence of the BSS-R quality of care subscale, while in contrast the women's attributes and stress experienced during childbearing subscales could be explained more plausibly by a general factor of experience of childbirth., Conclusion: Consistent with the recommendations of the original BSS-R validation study, the current investigation found robust empirical evidence to support the use of both the subscale scoring system and the total score. Researchers and clinicians can therefore select either approach (or both) with confidence.

Background: The Birth Satisfaction Scale - Revised (BSS-R) is a valid and reliable scale designed to assess women's experiences of labour and childbirth., Objective: To assess factor structure, validity, and reliability of the Turkish Birth Satisfaction Scale - Revised (T-BSS-R) using data collected from a Turkish population., Setting: Istanbul Ministry of Health Zeynep Kamil Women's and Children's Training and Research Hospital., Participants: A convenience sample of healthy child-bearing women (n = 120) who had experienced a spontaneous vertex delivery at full term., Method: A survey was conducted post backtranslating the T-BSS-R, with survey data analysed using confirmatory factor analysis., Results: Factor modelling found three subscales embedded in the T-BSS-R, which indicated a good model fit, χ 2 = 44.67, CFI = .94; RMSEA = .057; SRMR = .075. A Chi-square value of 1.33 also indicated a good fit. Means for the T-BSS-R subdimensions (1) Stress Experienced (T-BSS-SE-R) = 6.86 ± 3.10, (2) Women's Attributes (T-BSS-WA-R) = 2.84 ± 1.89, (3) Quality of Care (T-BSS-QC-R) = 10.69 ± 3.19 and total scale = 20.39 ± 5.98. The Cronbach alpha coefficient for total scale = 0.71 and for subdimensions T-BSS-SE-R = 0.55, T-BSS-WA-R = 0.44 and T-BSS-QC-R = -0.74., Conclusion: Data analysis determined that the T-BSS-R is a valid and reliable instrument to measure birth satisfaction in a population of Turkish women. The T-BSS-R is available for use from c.hollinsmartin@napier.ac.uk .

Objective and Background: The 10-item Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) has recently been endorsed by international expert consensus for global use as the birth satisfaction outcome measure of choice. English-language versions of the tool include validated UK and US versions; however, the instrument has not, to date, been contextualised and validated in an Australian English-language version. The current investigation sought to develop and validate an English-language version of the tool for use within the Australian context., Methods: A two-stage study. Following review and modification by expert panel, the Australian BSS-R (A-BSS-R) was (Stage 1) evaluated for factor structure, internal consistency, known-groups discriminant validity and divergent validity. Stage 2 directly compared the A-BSS-R data set with the original UK data set to determine the invariance characteristics of the new instrument. Participants were a purposive sample of Australian postnatal women (n = 198)., Results: The A-BSS-R offered a good fit to data consistent with the BSS-R tridimensional measurement model and was found to be conceptually and measurement equivalent to the UK version. The A-BSS-R demonstrated excellent known-groups discriminant validity, generally good divergent validity and overall good internal consistency., Conclusion: The A-BSS-R represents a robust and valid measure of the birth satisfaction concept suitable for use within Australia and appropriate for application to International comparative studies.

Background: The 10-item Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) is being increasingly used internationally. The use of the measure and the concept has gathered traction in the United States following the development of a US version of the tool. A limitation of previous studies of the measurement characteristics of the BSS-R is modest sample size. Unplanned pregnancy is recognised as being associated with a range of negative birth outcomes, but the relationship to birth satisfaction has received little attention, despite the importance of birth satisfaction to a range of postnatal outcomes., Aim: The current investigation sought to evaluate the measurement characteristics of the BSS-R in a large postpartum sample., Methods: Multiple Groups Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA) was used to evaluate a series of measurement and structural models of the BSS-R to evaluate fundamental invariance characteristics using planned/unplanned pregnancy status to differentiate groups., Findings: Complete data from N=2116 women revealed that the US version of the BSS-R offers an excellent fit to data and demonstrates full measurement and structural invariance. Little difference was observed between women on the basis of planned/unplanned pregnancy stratification on measures of birth satisfaction., Discussion: The established relationship between unplanned pregnancy and negative perinatal outcomes was not found to extend to birth satisfaction in the current study. The BSS-R demonstrated exemplary measurement and structural invariance characteristics., Conclusion: The current study strongly supports the use of the US version of the BSS-R to compare birth satisfaction across different groups of women with theoretical and measurement confidence., (Copyright © 2016 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: This research sought to test the measurement invariance of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) across United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) samples. Multiple-group measurement was tested and latent means analysis compared levels of birth satisfaction across the samples., Method: Using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), data previously collected from 409 mothers (181 US mothers; 228 UK mothers) were used to examine the multiple-group measurement invariance of the BSS-R across US and UK samples., Results: A correlated factors BSS-R model demonstrated partial measurement invariance. US mothers had significantly lower birth satisfaction levels on the three BSS-R subscales., Conclusions: This research demonstrates that the BSS-R is a robust tool that can be used to reliably measure women's birth satisfaction within and across the US and UK.

Background: Compassion fatigue and burnout can impact on performance of nurses. This paper explores the relationship between self-compassion, self-judgement, self-kindness, compassion, professional quality of life, and wellbeing among community nurses., Aim: To measure associations between self-compassion, compassion fatigue, wellbeing, and burnout in community nurses., Method: Quantitative data were collected using standardised psychometric questionnaires: (1) Professional Quality of Life Scale; (2) Self-Compassion Scale; (3) short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale; (4) Compassion For Others Scale, used to measure relationships between self-compassion, compassion fatigue, wellbeing, and burnout., Participants: A cross sectional sample of registered community nurses (n=37) studying for a postgraduate diploma at a University in the North of England took part in this study., Results: Results show that community nurses who score high on measures of self-compassion and wellbeing, also report less burnout. Greater compassion satisfaction was also positively associated with compassion for others, and wellbeing, whilst also being negatively correlated with burnout., Conclusion: High levels of self-compassion were linked with lower levels of burnout. Furthermore when community nurses have greater compassion satisfaction they also report more compassion for others, increased wellbeing, and less burnout. The implications of this are discussed alongside suggestions for the promotion of greater compassion., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: to explore the prevalence of birth satisfaction for childbearing women planning to birth in their home or birth centers in the United States. Examining differences in birth satisfaction of the home and birth centers; and those who birthed in a hospital using the 30-item Birth Satisfaction Scale (BSS) and the 10-item Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R)., Study Design: a quantitative survey using the BSS and BSS-R were employed. Additional demographic data were collected using electronic linkages (Qualtrics ™ )., Participants: a convenience sample of childbearing women (n=2229) who had planned to birth in their home or birth center from the US (United States) participated. Participants were recruited via professional and personal contacts, primarily their midwives., Results: the total 30-item BSS score mean was 128.98 (SD 16.92) and the 10-item BSS-R mean score was 31.94 (SD 6.75). Sub-scale mean scores quantified the quality of care provision, women's personal attributes, and stress experienced during labour. Satisfaction was higher for women with vaginal births compared with caesareans deliveries. In addition, satisfaction was higher for women who had both planned to deliver in a home or a birth centre, and who had actually delivered in a home or a birth center., Key Conclusions: total and subscale birth satisfaction scores were positive and high for the overall sample IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: the BSS and the BSS-R provide a robust tool to quantify women's experiences of childbirth between variables such as birth types, birth settings and providers., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: compassion fatigue and burnout can impact on the performance of midwives, with this quantitative paper exploring the relationship between self-compassion, burnout, compassion fatigue, self-judgement, self-kindness, compassion for others, professional quality of life and well-being of student midwives., Method: a quantitative survey measured relationships using questionnaires: (1) Professional Quality of Life Scale; (2) Self-Compassion Scale; (3) Short Warwick and Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale; (4) Compassion For Others Scale., Participants: a purposive and convenience sample of student midwives (n=103) studying at university participated in the study., Results: just over half of the sample reported above average scores for burnout. The results indicate that student midwives who report higher scores on the self-judgement sub-scale are less compassionate towards both themselves and others, have reduced well-being, and report greater burnout and compassion fatigue. Student midwives who report high on measures of self-compassion and well-being report less compassion fatigue and burnout., Conclusion: student midwives may find benefit from 'being kinder to self' in times of suffering, which could potentially help them to prepare for the emotional demands of practice and study., Implications: developing, creating and cultivating environments that foster compassionate care for self and others may play a significant role in helping midwives face the rigours of education and clinical practice during their degree programme., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The most recent Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths (CMACE, 2011) identified human errors, specifically those of midwives and obstetricians/doctors as a fundamental component in contributing to maternal death in the U.K. This paper discusses these findings and outlines a project to provide training in Maternal-Acute Illness Management (M-AIM) to final year student midwives. Contents of the program are designed to educate and simulate AIM skills and increase confidence and clinical ability in early recognition, management and referral of the acutely ill woman. An outline of the Maternal-AIM program delivered at the University of Salford (Greater Manchester, UK) is presented to illustrate how this particular institution has responded to a perceived need voiced by local midwifery leaders. It is proposed that developing this area of expertise in the education system will better prepare student midwives for contemporary midwifery practice., (Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Therapeutic effects of music are well recognised within the literature, with benefits for a variety of health problems documented. This narrative review summarises benefits in terms of reducing stress, anxiety, labour pain and depression in childbearing women. For neonates, music has been shown to reduce number of days to discharge, reduce pain response behaviours, increase weight gain, improve Brazelton scores, improve parent/infant intimacy, improve oxygen saturation, increase formula intake, stabilize vital signs and increase parental reports of calmed infants. The main criticism of the studies reviewed is lack of categorisation of the particulars of the variables within the music that directly influenced outcome variables. A recommendation is made that a music package be developed and relationships with variables rigorously evaluated. The validated product may then be made available for use. Since evidence supports advantages from listening to music, it is suggested that maternity professionals use it in more creative ways., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: the NMSF (2009) reported that 74 Trusts (40%) in the UK lack expertise in delivering maternity based bereavement care. In response, three midwifery lecturers were issued with a small grant from NHS Scotland to devise and evaluate an interactive workbook intended to develop student midwives understanding of how to deliver high quality bereavement care., Aim: to develop a workbook called--'an interactive workbook to shape bereavement care for midwives in clinical practice'--and evaluate it for effectiveness at delivering learning objectives developed from the literature and from prior written lesson plans., Method: an evaluative audit was carried out using a scored questionnaire--Understanding Bereavement Evaluation Tool (UBET)--to gather data before and post-workbook completion. The UBET was purposely designed to gather data about participants' perceived level of learning before and post-workbook completion. Participants were student midwives (n=179) in their second/third year of study on a three year midwifery degree programme at one of three universities., Findings: the mean pre-workbook UBET score equalled 16.04 (SD=3.81) and post-intervention 26.45 (SD=2.16). A significant main effect of observation point was observed (p<0.001), with post-intervention scores considerably higher than pre-intervention., Discussion: findings demonstrate that the workbook is an effective method for teaching bereavement care to student midwives (it is available from the first author)., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: to assess factor structure, validity and reliability of the Birth Satisfaction Scale (BSS) and to develop a short-form version of the tool., Design: a quantitative design focused on evaluating psychometric properties of the BSS using factor structure, internal consistency, divergent reliability and known groups validity., Setting: Ayrshire Maternity Unit community midwife bases that serve the obstetric population of Ayrshire, Scotland (UK)., Participants: a convenience sample of healthy women (n=228) <10 days post partum who had delivered a term infant. Data was collected from October 2010 to January 2011., Measurement: the BSS contains 30 self report items, rated on a 5-point Likert scale that measure women's perceptions of: (1) quality of care provision, (2) women's personal attributes, and (3) stress experienced during labour (8, 8 and 14 items per factor)., Findings: post data analysis the BSS was reconfigured into the 10 item BSS-Revised (BSS-R) comprised of three sub-scales that measure distinct but correlated domains of: (1) quality of care provision, (2) women's personal attributes, and (3) stress experienced during labour. These domains now consist of relatively few items (4, 2 and 4 items per factor), but offer a good fit to the data., Key Conclusions: the BSS-R would appear to be a robust, valid and reliable multidimensional psychometric instrument for measuring postnatal women's birth satisfaction. Further research to confirm the veracity of the instruments measurement properties highlighted in the current study is desirable. The BSS-R is available for use at a national/international level from the first author., (© 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: The NMSF (2009) survey reported that bereavement midwife care was inadequate in a number of UK NHS Trusts. Using a small grant from the Scottish government, 3 experienced midwifery lecturers designed an interactive workbook called "Shaping bereavement care for midwives in clinical practice" for the purpose of improving delivery of bereavement education to student midwives. An instrument called the Understanding Bereavement Evaluation Tool (UBET) was designed to measure effectiveness of the workbook at equipping students with essential knowledge., Aim: To assess validity and reliability of the UBET at measuring midwives' self-perceptions of knowledge surrounding delivery of bereavement care to childbearing women, partners and families who have experienced childbirth related bereavement., Method: An evaluative audit using the UBET was undertaken to explore student midwives' (n=179) self perceived knowledge levels before and after the workbook intervention. Validity tests have shown that the UBET, (6-item version), could be considered a psychometrically robust instrument for assessing students' knowledge gain. PCA identified that the UBET comprised two sub-scales (theoretical knowledge base - Q 1, 2 & 3 and psychosocial elements of care delivery - Q 4, 5 & 6)., Discussion: Data has shown that the easy to administer and short 6-item UBET is a valid and reliable tool for educators to measure success at delivering education using the "Shaping bereavement care for midwives in clinical practice" work book., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

At present there is lack of information about CMV transmission given to midwives, general practitioners, neonatal pediatricians and nurses, with intrauterine transmission having profound consequences in terms of outcomes for the infected neonate. To identify one particular group of midwives knowledge about CMV, the research question surveyed midwives' knowledge of CMV. A quantitative electronic survey was the research method utilized in this study. To assess midwives knowledge about CMV, the first author emailed colleagues in Hannover and was in receipt of 40 completed questionnaires. Results showed that midwives have gaps in their knowledge about CMV and that an educational program is necessary to enlarge their understandings. Given the catastrophic consequences to the neonate of contracting congenital CMV, it is imperative that both health care professionals and women receive the educational message about prevention. In response an education program for lecturers has been proposed, which consists of eleven learning objectives., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

At present in Yemen the neonatal mortality rate stands at 12%. A contributing factor is that when abnormalities arise during labour in rural areas, there is an absence of trained medical staff to manage complications. Consequently, childbearing women are expected to travel long distances to hospitals to receive Essential Obstetric Care (EOC). This paper presents a debate over whether vacuum delivery should be introduced into the education curriculum of community midwifery courses in Yemen. It is proposed that this fundamental change to both the educational system and the community midwives role could facilitate a reduction in maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity figures in Yemen., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Women in western countries generally lie semi-recumbent during first stage of labour, when perhaps it is more natural to move around. Consequently carers are unaware of what constitutes instinctive behaviours and their outcomes. With this in mind, a structured narrative review of the literature identified what prior research has shown about the impact of maternal movement upon length of first stage; results are ambiguous, with 11 studies reporting no alteration to length and 7 reporting shortening. These studies fail to adequately detail time spent mobilising and what in fact constituted walking, squatting, upright, lying lateral, supine or semi-recumbent, and their direct effects upon progress of first stage. Advancements in knowledge are required to progress understanding about maternal activity during labour and its outcomes., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Quality of life measures can be used by health professionals to assess effectiveness of nutritional interventions administered to palliative care patients. Stabilizing, maintaining and attempting to increase weight in palliative care patients through the support of oral feeding, and provision of artificial feeding, has been shown to mediate the metabolic and physical wasting effects of the disease process and improve general comfort. A quality of life instrument is a multi-dimensional questionnaire that health professionals can use to measure domains relating to physical, psychological and social aspects of living, and health and disease outcomes. There are three instruments specifically designed to assess quality of life in patients receiving palliative care. These are: The Palliative Care Quality of life Instrument, The Assessment of Quality of Life at the End of Life (AQEL), and The Spitzer Quality of Life Index (SQLI). General use quality of life measures are multifaceted; however, for use with palliative care patients, they have added dimensions of spirituality, existential issues (purpose and meaning of life), family members' perceptions of quality of care, symptom control and family support. Use of quality of life scales provides health professionals and organizations with an ideal measure for planning, targeting and evaluating health interventions.