Introduction: Women's satisfaction with the childbirth experience is a complex construct influenced by the quality of professional care, continuous support, communication with healthcare providers, and their degree of autonomy in decision-making. Key factors of dissatisfaction include stress resulting from unexpected medical interventions and the discrepancies between prenatal expectations and the actual course of labor. Aim: The purpose of this thesis was to examine the impact of prenatal education and birth plans on women’s satisfaction with childbirth and to analyze how these factors enhance self-efficacy and reduce fear associated with childbirth. Methods: A descriptive method was used, involving a systematic review of Slovenian and foreign professional literature published between 2015 and 2025. The final analysis included 41 relevant sources, selected based on thematic relevance, availability of full-text access, and emphasis on psychosocial support for women during childbirth. Results: The literature review confirms a strong association between psychological states (fear, anxiety) and the course of labor. Significant fear of childbirth increases the intensity of perceived pain, prolongs labor stages, and negatively affects the overall experience. Targeted prenatal education was identified as the most effective method for reducing fear and improving clinical outcomes, providing women with a greater sense of preparedness and control. Discussion and conclusion: Targeted prenatal education significantly improves women's readiness for childbirth and their ability to recognize the stages of labor and potential complications. The highest levels of satisfaction are expressed by women who experienced a spontaneous vaginal birth and were able to actively choose their positions and move freely during labor. Autonomy in decision-making and the use of a birth plan as a communication tool strengthen the sense of competence and accomplishment, thereby facilitating a positive transition to motherhood.
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