Quality of antenatal care as perceived by women participating in a midwifery continuity of care (MCoC) model in Sweden.

BACKGROUND: Antenatal care plays a vital role in preparing women for childbirth and the postpartum period. Midwifery continuity models may enhance the quality of antenatal care. AIM: To explore women's experiences regarding the organisation and content of antenatal care among participants in a midwifery continuity of care (MCoC) project. METHODS: a prospective cohort study of 142 women experiencing fear of birth or depressive symptoms. This project offered two alternatives for antenatal care: 'full continuity' with the MCoC midwives (Model A), or a mixed option with health check-ups with a local midwife and digital contacts with the MCoC midwives (Model B). Counselling, parent education and birth preparation were provided online for all women. Data was collected through online questionnaires during pregnancy and postnatally, measuring perceived reality (PR) and subjective importance (SI) of antenatal care. FINDINGS: Fifty women opted for the 'full continuity model' (Model A), while 92 chose the mixed alternative (Model B). No differences in background characteristics were observed between the groups. Statistically significant discrepancies emerged between perceived reality and subjective importance, especially regarding information. Overall satisfaction with antenatal care was high. Women in Model A rated midwife support and partner involvement higher compared to those in Model B. Deficiencies were noted regarding information on breastfeeding and postpartum care in Model B. CONCLUSION: The quality of antenatal care was perceived as satisfactory; however, information regarding breastfeeding and the postpartum period requires enhancement. The model with 'full continuity' was associated with stronger midwifery support and greater partner involvement.