Continuity of Care for Prevention of Preterm Birth

Abstract

Preterm birth is the global problem of both developed and developing countries. Prevention commonly focuses on pregnant women with risks of preterm birth while the incidence of preterm birth is increasing among women with low risk. An increase incidence of preterm birth occurred among pregnant women with low-risk because these women may receive less concern for prevention. Thus, nurse-midwives should provide primary prevention of preterm birth using the continuity of care concept. This concept of continuity of care can reduce the incidence of preterm birth as this care mainly meets women’s needs and expectations. In this concept of continuity of care, the woman can negotiate about her health and her unborn baby. The concept of continuity of healthcare consists of information continuity, relationship continuity, and management continuity. This concept is associated with midwifery partnership that consisted (1) time and trust and (2) equality and reciprocity (3) negotiation (4) sharing power and responsibility, and (5) empowerment. Nurse-midwives provide individual care to all pregnant women with flexibility, and this care needs time to build trust, equality, information sharing, and negotiation. Midwifery partnership helps pregnant women to take responsibility for their health and baby. Good relationship and continuity may empower pregnant women to look after themselves as women are the center of care to prevent preterm birth.