ABSTRACT
An annual report is published in Campania (Italy) presenting useful data on the characteristics of births in the region, but this does not include information on all aspects of prenatal care. For example, data on availability and utilization of prenatal care services such as antenatal classes is lacking. A questionnaire survey was therefore undertaken by interviewing managers of health districts and local obstetric hospitals that offered antenatal courses. Overall, in the Campania region, 70 publicly-funded courses were offered in the years 2009-2011 but only 8% of women giving birth in the region in 2011 attended antenatal classes . Course characteristics vary considerably with respect to duration, number of meetings, type of information provided and type of healthcare professionals involved. The courses do not appear to be effectively promoted and course hours are incompatible with working women's schedules.
