Midwives’ and women's views on accessing dental care during pregnancy: an Australian qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Maternal behaviours during pregnancy are likely to play a significant role in the development of dental caries in children. Although midwives are well placed to discuss oral health and provide information to women, dental attendance by women during pregnancy is minimal. This study aimed to explore midwives’ experience of facilitating pregnant women's access to dental care and to document women's experience of receiving dental information and care during pregnancy. Methods: Focus groups with midwives and telephone interviews with women who were referred to Monash Health Dental Services were conducted to explore their perspectives and experiences. The qualitative data was thematica..