A systematic review to explore antenatal care from the perspectives of women with intellectual disabilities and midwives

Background
During pregnancy, some women with an intellectual disability encounter some challenges, and some midwives who provide them with support lack the knowledge to provide the best care. This systematic review explores the experiences of women with intellectual disability during pregnancy and midwives' experiences of providing care.

Method
Four databases were searched (PubMed, CINHAL, PsycINFO and Web of Science) and the resultant studies were appraised for quality using CASP. The selected papers were published between January 2012 and December 2022 and originated from the United Kingdom, Sweden, Canada and Ireland.

Results
Eight studies were included: five examined the experiences of pregnant women with intellectual disability, one investigated the midwives' experiences of caring and two analysed both groups. The primary themes amongst women included pregnancy announcements, involvement in their care and fear of losing their baby custody. The midwives expressed their lack of readiness and need for additional support. Both groups recognised the necessity for improved education and accessible communication.

Conclusion
Women with intellectual disabilities who are in the context of this review revealed their requirement for improved education and assistance in understanding antenatal information. The midwives within the included studies felt inadequately prepared to support women with intellectual disabilities: they lacked specialist training and required additional support in health education and communication skills.