Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although there is ongoing debate, the current consensus is that vaginal breech birth carries a marginal increase in perinatal morbidity and mortality. Due to these risks there have been decreasing numbers of vaginal breech births and subsequently clinical exposure to hands-on training has declined. However, to confidently care for women who plan a vaginal breech birth or those presenting in advanced labour with an unexpected breech presentation, education in vaginal breech birth remains necessary. AIMS: This pilot study aimed to assess the ability of a multimodal teaching program consisting of high-fidelity physical models, educational videos and a 360° virtual reality video to increase the confidence of maternity staff in their theory and management skills regarding vaginal breech birth. A secondary aim was to determine whether the virtual reality video enhanced learning alongside established techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY: A multimodal teaching program was administered to 20 maternity health staff. They were given a self-reported pre- and post-intervention scales to assess changes in their confidence. They also provided feedback on the virtual reality video. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The teaching program significantly increased maternity staff's confidence in their knowledge and management skills whilst decreasing their anxiety surrounding vaginal breech birth. However, participants did not perceive the 360(o) virtual reality being of added value. Further studies should examine whether this program leads to objective change in vaginal breech birth knowledge and management skills and ultimately improved clinical outcomes. Additional studies should explore which types of virtual reality technology benefit breech birth education.