The impact of systemic solutions in the care of pregnant women in Poland and England on the number of visits to a midwife during pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding

Aim of the study
To compare the forms of care of pregnant and obstetric women in Poland and Great Britain, as well as to analyse the attitudes and knowledge of Polish and British women about the correct behaviour in this period.

Material and methods
The research was conducted among 111 Polish and 55 British women using the diagnostic survey method with the questionnaire technique, using an anonymous proprietary research tool. The collected material was statistically analysed.

Results
The obtained results showed a statistically significant difference in the number of visits to the midwife and the doctor. Polish women visit a doctor much more often during pregnancy (11 visits) than British women (3 visits), who mostly visit a midwife (7 visits). The conducted study did not show any statistically significant correlation between the number of visits to a midwife or a doctor and the duration of breastfeeding.

Conclusions
The different forms of care (obstetrician-gynaecologist vs. midwife) do not translate into differences in the responding women’s level of knowledge and attitudes regarding breastfeeding duration. Considering the different organizational solutions for the care of pregnant women and obstetricians in Poland and Great Britain and the lack of significant differences in the aspects related to breastfeeding in both groups, the awareness of women about the possibility of visiting a midwife during pregnancy should be increased.