Women’s perceptions of the pain assessment and non-pharmacological pain relief methods used during labor: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The use of non-pharmacological pain relief methods and pain assessment scales during labor has received limited research attention. This study aimed to describe women's perceptions of the pain assessment and non-pharmacological pain relief methods used during labor. METHODS A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted. A convenience sample of women (n=204) from one Finnish maternity ward participated in the study. Women who had given birth were asked to respond to a validated questionnaire between November 2018 and February 2019. The statistical significance of observed differences was analyzed using the chi-squared test. RESULTS Less than half (46%) of the women who gave birth at the hospital were asked to assess the intensity of their pain on a pain assessment scale. The most commonly used non-pharmacological pain relief methods were encouragement (92%), the presence of a midwife (82%), and proper breathing technique that was taught by a midwife (81%). Aqua blisters (3%), reflexology (e.g. zone magnets, 5%), and music (9%) were the least commonly used non-pharmacological methods during labor. The participants' experiences of fear and pain were significantly associated with the implementation of pain assessment. CONCLUSIONS Women's pain was rarely evaluated by using a certain pain assessment scale. In addition, non-pharmacological pain relief methods were inadequately used during labor. More specifically, methods that required midwives' own personal contributions were rarely offered to the women.

Women’s Knowledge about Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Methods of Pain Relief in Labor

“…Similar data were reported by a Brazilian study among 165 women, where almost all participants (96.5%) had knowledge about at least one non-pharmacological method of relieving pain in labor, with immersion in water (87.1%), the use of a birthing ball (80.7%), and breathing technique (74.8%) as the most common methods of pain management [ 2 ]. Similar findings have been reported by Finnish authors, who reported that the parturients were aware of the following non-pharmacological ways of relieving pain in labor: breathing technique, use of cold and hot compresses, physical activity, and upright positions [ 35 , 36 ].…”

Evaluating women’s experiences of labour pain: beyond a generic pain scale

“…To provide women with the appropriate support, it is crucial for caregivers to assess their pain. However, accurately measuring another’s pain, especially in non-pathological situations, is challenging,2 especially as there are limited multidimensional pain assessment tools available. The historical focus of pain assessment has been on sensory evaluation, often resulting in pharmacological interventions.…”

Nonpharmacological pain relief for labour pain: knowledge, attitude, and barriers among obstetric care providers

“…Therefore, obstetric care providers (OCPs) play a crucial role in managing pain, promoting patient comfort, and aiding in the recovery of patients during their hospital stay. However, studies have shown that many hospitalized patients do not receive nonpharmacological interventions for pain relief ( Rantala, Hakala & Pölkki, 2022 ), which can negatively affect their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being as well as increase postpartum complications and healthcare costs ( Karabulut, Gurcayir & Aktas, 2016 ).…”