Anne-Sylvie Diezi

Thèse en cours sous la direction de Antje Horsch IUFRS, Béatrice Schaad IHM-CHUV-Unil et David Baud DFME CHUV

Résumé

Complications requiring medical interventions during childbirth are common and often occur unexpectedly. Preparing expectant parents for these potential events without generating unnecessary anxiety remains a major challenge for maternity care professionals. Previous research has shown that negative birth experiences are frequently associated with inadequate information, limited involvement in decision-making, and a perceived loss of control.

My PhD addresses these challenges through the COALA project, a research programme aimed at strengthening communication and shared decision-making between expectant parents and maternity care professionals before birth. An initial exploratory study investigated the information and communication needs of parents and professionals. Based on these findings, a co-design process involving parents, medical doctors, and midwives led to the development of a communication toolkit for use during antenatal consultations. The toolkit is designed to help parents better understand and anticipate different childbirth scenarios, clarify and express their preferences and values, and facilitate meaningful discussions with healthcare professionals before birth.

A feasibility study has recently been completed at the CHUV Maternity Hospital to evaluate the integration and use of the toolkit in routine antenatal care. By combining needs assessment, co-design, and feasibility testing, this research seeks to inform the development of effective communication interventions that enhance parents' preparedness, participation in decision-making, and overall childbirth experience.