Preparation for childbirth--evidence for efficacy. A review.

Recent research on pain and psychoprophylaxis in relation to preparation for childbirth are examined. The various findings seem to lead to the value of childbirth preparation classes in lowering anxiety levels and altering patients' assessments of their impending labors. These changes in patients' appraisals are reflected in the experience of childbirth: in lowered perceptions of pain and more positive feelings about the birth.