Hypnosis for labour and childbirth: A meta-integration of qualitative and quantitative studies

International audienceBackground: Hypnosis in labour and childbirth is a complex intervention. Both qualitative and quantitative assessment methods have been used, but have targeted different outcomes. We followed a synergistic approach and a reconciliation strategy to further understand and evaluate this intervention.Methods: A mixed-method analysis of quantitative and qualitative evidence was conducted. The assessment of efficacy was based on a recent Cochrane review (9 trials, 2954 women randomised). Four qualitative studies and 4 case studies were included.Results: The outcomes addressed by the qualitative studies (mostly concerning maternal experiences) and in the quantitative studies (mostly concerning analgesic use) overlapped slightly. Discrepancies across results from the two study types suggested that response shift issues could occur.Conclusion: Patient-centred instruments exploring response shift issues would be of great value. Hypnosis can be presented as a technique enabling patients to have a positive birth experience