The Effect of Reflexology on Labor Pain, Anxiety, Labor Duration, and Birth Satisfaction in Primiparous Pregnant Women: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The Effect of Reflexology on Labor Pain, Anxiety, Labor Duration, and Birth Satisfaction in Primiparous Pregnant Women: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Randomized Controlled Trial

Authors

Akköz Çevik S 1, Incedal İ 2

1 Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Gynecology and Obstetric Nursing, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey.

2 Gaziantep Cengiz Gökçek Maternity and Children Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey.

Publication Identity

Health Care Women Int. 2020 Sep 2:1-16

DOI:

10.1080/07399332.2020

Abstract:

Objectives: The authors of this study aimed to determine the effect of reflexology on labor outcomes in primiparous pregnant women. A total of 60 women participated in the study in 2 groups of 30 for reflexology and control groups.

Methods: During the first stage of labor, the reflexology technique was applied to reflex regions of each foot. VAS mean scores and State Anxiety Inventory mean scores of the experimental group were found to be statistically significantly lower than the control group.

Conclusions: Reflexology was effective in decreasing pain and anxiety and increasing the birth satisfaction during the first stage of labor.

Keywords: Reflexology, Labor Pain, Anxiety, Labor Duration, Birth Satisfaction, Primiparous Pregnant Women, Randomized Controlled Trial