ABSTRACT
The dominant drive to adopt the characteristics intrinsic in good mothering and to meet the ideology of motherhood is a key influence in women’s experiences from the earliest point. This identity causes women to represent themselves within constructed childbirth norms, demonstrate advocacy and make responsible choices that prioritise the well-being of babies. Women in early pregnancy narratives do not dwell on labour; however, narratives in late pregnancy demonstrate that thoughts and fears about the impending labour become more prominent. Some late-pregnancy fears and worries reflect early pregnancy concerns about choice of site for delivery and women express concerns about not meeting the ‘normal pregnant woman’ standards that would facilitate their choice. The hegemony of expertise, monitoring and surveillance in pregnancy and childbirth that occurs regardless of the type of care, undoubtedly facilitates the early recognition of abnormality. Pregnant women regardless of their choices for care are bound by the psychological consequences of maternity discourses and influences, whether negative or positive.
