Lack of interest could reflect no perceived risk, denial of risk, lack of awareness, or information already known. Yet, each of these topics is linked to outcomes. Even if information is already known, providers repetition and reinforcement of key messages is essential. Failure to bring up a topic may be taken as an indication that a topic does not warrant discussion or is taboo. Prenatal care providers should not worry about repeating information or advice.
Adults learn by repetition.
Most of us remember a message only after we hear or see it three times. Surveys of Beginnings s readers show that some experienced mothers do want information. One mother of two writes, I think doctors often assume that women know everything they need to know without finding out how much info the women actually have. I did not know how to recognize problems that required medical attention, nor was I ever told how to best go about getting help if I thought I needed it especially on weekends when my doctor wasn t available. Another mother said, We looked forward to each Beginnings booklet a much needed refresher course for our family.