Perceived Learning Needs of Minority Expectant Women and Barriers to Prenatal Education

This study explored the prenatal education needs of foreign-born, Hispanic, and minority expectant mothers in the United States who received their obstetric care at a hospital-based clinic. Their perceptions also helped identify barriers to attending childbirth education classes. Fifty-nine pregnant women in their first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy participated in the study, which consisted of two separate surveys. Participants rated the importance of attending classes, as well as various topics to be covered. The cultural environment of the class, as well as the teaching strategies used for presentation of class content, needs to be considered by childbirth educators. Transportation issues and childcare were identified as being the most frequent barriers for women and families participating in prenatal education.