The Effects of Intrapartum Supportive Care on Fear of Delivery and Labor Outcomes: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The results of this evidence-based study suggest that continuous support during labor has clinically meaningful benefits for women and that all women should receive this support throughout their labor and delivery process.

Supportive care provided by companion during childbirth and it's effect on labor progress and maternal satisfaction

“…In congruence with these present study results, a study in Santa Catarina demonstrated that the labor support companion who was well prepared and instructed by the healthcare providers helped in providing the parturient woman with sound clear information about the labor procedures; this assisted her throughout the labor stages (Alves et al, 2013). Moreover, Bohren et al (2017) in a study in Switzerland found that continuous support to parturient women was associated with significantly better maternal and fetal outcomes. On the same line, Quitete and Monteiro (2018) clarified that the continuous companion support, both physical as massages and emotional as encouragement and care, helped in pain relief with no need for medical interventions.…”

“…In line with these abovementioned current study findings, Batista et al (2017) mentioned that many hospitals in Brazil do not accept companions during labor, and this was attributed to inadequate organizational structure of the services and lack of supplies necessary. Additionally, a study in Kenia reported that the healthcare professionals considered the role of companions as just helpers to execute some of their non -clinical orders rather than being providers of continuous support to the woman in labor (Afulani et al, 2018).…”

Support actions undertaken for the woman by companions in public maternity hospitals

“…The presence of the father in this scenario symbolizes - even if only partially - the family’s becoming closer after the birth. International studies have revealed that in other countries, the presence of the father during the birth is accepted 17 , regardless of whether this is related or not to the provision of support, it frequently being the case that the doula or midwife takes on this task 18 - 19 .…”

Effects of Intrapartum Oxytocin Induction on the Labor Pain and Fear of Labor

“…Supportive care reduces fear and perceived pain in labor and shortens the length of labor. (23) Supportive care offered by nurses and midwifes during labor involves physical support and comfort, emotional support, instructional/ informational support, and advocacy support. (24,25) Non-pharmacological pain management methods (breathing, relaxation, labor position, acupressure, etc.)…”