Table 1 Structured C-ICP courses for pregnant women and their companions
Topics | Content/Materials | Teaching Techniques |
|---|---|---|
Required items and danger signs | Review the list of required items for clean childbirth and danger signs | Recall & Summarizing |
Signs of labor | (a) regular, progressively painful contractions; (b) lower back pain radiating from fundus; (c) bloody show; (d) rupture of membranes or draining fluid | Recall & Summarizing |
Effective pain reduction during labor and childbirth | (a) ambulation in early stage of labor; (b) relaxation and breathing techniques: start with one big breath, then take short and fast breaths; (c) between contractions: take 1–2 deep breaths, relax the body completely as the breath goes out; (d) back rub/massage; (e) frequent urination: every 2 h | Discussion/ Demonstration, Role-play, & Coaching |
Effective bearing down during childbirth | (a) positioning: lithotomy (preferred); open legs, holding ankles with back curved and chin on chest; (b) start bearing down when asked to push and stop when contractions end; (c) effective pushing: pushing when feeling contractions; (d) relaxing and panting between contractions; (e) panting by opening mouth when asked during childbirth | A demonstration, Role-play, & Coaching |
Expected roles of the pregnant woman when labor starts | (a) recognize normal signs of labor/danger signs and seek help fast; (b) eat adequately warm, soft porridge with enough sugar; (c) walk around in early-stage; (d) empty bladder every 2 h; (e) effective pushing when told | Discussion & Coaching |
Expected roles of the birth companion | (a) do not give any local medicine/herbs; (b) stay/support when walking, and reassurance; (c) give back massages; (d) remind the pregnant woman of expected roles; (e) ensure pregnant woman receives assistance on time | Discussion & Coaching |