My name is Jane McCartney, I am currently studying for a research doctorate at the Kent Institute of Medicine and Health Sciences based the University of Kent, United Kingdom.
I wonder if you would be interested in helping me find out more about how the experiences of childbirth may have an effect on women. We have known for some time that women report many different, often powerful, experiences of childbirth. The reason we are conducting this present study is to try to better understand those experiences and how they may influence your well-being and affect the sense you have of yourself.
Eventually we would aim to assist health professionals, such as midwives, health-visitors and GP involved in pregnancy, childbirth and post-natal care to identify women who may require extra support or information after they have had their babies.
I would like to invite to take part in the study if:
• You are over 18 years old.
• You have had a baby in the last 5 years.
• You are able to read and speak English fluently.
The questionnaire will take about 10-15 minutes to complete. The questions concern issues to do with the birth itself and how the birth experience has affected you. For each question, please answer by choosing the option that you think best fits what you are experiencing or feeling. There are no right or wrong answers, but please try to be as honest as possible in your choices. You will not be contacted again after you have completed the questionnaire. All of the information you give will be treated as strictly confidential and will be used only for the purpose of this study. Your identity will remain anonymous. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time and do not have to give any reason. This study does not evaluate you as a person or as a parent in any way. On the final page there is a list of useful organisations you may wish to contact if you find any part of this questionnaire distressing.
If you have any questions at all about the study you are very welcome to contact me Jane McCartney at jfm7@kent.ac.uk
My supervisor is Dr Georgia Lepper G.Lepper@kent.ac.uk
By proceeding to the survey you agree with the following statements:
• I confirm that I have read and understand the information for the above study.
• I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to withhold personal information or to withdraw at any time, without giving any reason, and without my medical care or legal rights being affected.
• I agree to take part in the above study.
Thank you for very much for your help.