[Woman's information and consent in obstetrics: CNGOF Perineal Prevention and Protection in Obstetrics Guidelines].

OBJECTIVES

To analyze literature, rules, and practices concerning woman's information on labour and delivery.

METHODS

An actualized systematic review of French rules and guidelines, as well as literature, on patient's information, shared decision-making, and patient's autonomy was done.

RESULTS

After a reminder on basis of patient's information, notions on patient's autonomy, consent to care, and shared decision-making are developed. Lastly, the role of information documents and birth plan are clarified, as well as rules and guidelines for an efficient conception of the information documents that will result from the present clinical practice guidelines on perineal prevention and protection in obstetrics.

CONCLUSION

During pregnancy, and again in the labour room, it is recommended to focus on the woman's expectations and to inform her about the modes of delivery. Because she has seen several healthcare professionals during pregnancy, it is necessary to inquire about the information she has already received in order to adapt further information to her situation and current knowledge. This information can be delivered in several forms and by several sources; it should be completed by individualized oral information provided by the healthcare professionals attending her during her prenatal care and during labour. If the woman wants to develop a birth plan, it should be constructed in a supported process that allows the sharing of her knowledge and expectations and of appropriate information delivered by professionals, ideally beginning with the early prenatal interview and continuing during antenatal consultations and sessions of preparation for childbirth and parenting.