Table 1 Main topics covered by the childbirth course with two different instructional approaches toward labor positions and mobility

1

• Anatomy and physiology of labor

• Preparation for labor (e.g., perineal massage)

• Healthy lifestyle

Lecture

2

• The three stages of labor; how to know when you are in labor

• What are the options concerning medications, assistant birth, and other interventions

Lecture & Video

• Comfort techniques to relieve the pain such as hydrotherapy, breathing, guided imagery, relaxation, and massage

Practicing the comfort techniques

3

• Three principles for comfort labor: balance, relaxation, and mobility

Lecture & Videos

• Labor positions and mobility across labor stages

Practicing different labor positions

Discovery-based instruction

4

• What will happen in the hospital; a virtual visit to the delivery room

Video & Discussion

• Guidance to make informed decisions about labor positions and mobility; anesthesia; assistant birth; and common medical procedures

Lecture

Role-play based learning

5

• Breastfeeding and infant care

• Early postpartum period

• Personal and relationship issues

Lecture & Video