Evaluating the Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions in Reducing Labor Pain among Women during Vaginal Delivery

Abstract

Background: Labour pain is a profound physical and emotional stressor, and while pharmacological analgesia is effective, it carries risks and is not universally available, particularly in low-resource settings. Non-pharmacological interventions may offer safe, low-cost alternatives that enhance women’s coping and satisfaction. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured bundle of non-pharmacological interventions, compared with standard care, in reducing labour pain intensity and improving maternal satisfaction among women undergoing vaginal delivery. Methods: In this parallel-group randomized controlled trial, 120 low-risk women in active labour (4–6 cm cervical dilatation) at term were allocated to either an intervention group (n = 60) receiving guided breathing, maternal position changes, warm lumbar compresses, and continuous intrapartum support, or a control group (n = 60) receiving standard obstetric care. Pain intensity was measured using a 10-cm visual analogue scale at 4–6 cm, 7–9 cm, and during the second stage of labour. Maternal satisfaction was assessed within 24 hours postpartum using a five-point Likert scale. Data were analysed with independent-sample t-tests; mean differences, 95% confidence intervals, and effect sizes were reported. Results: Mean VAS scores were significantly lower in the intervention group at 4–6 cm (5.1 ± 1.2 vs 6.2 ± 1.3; mean difference −1.1; p = 0.001), 7–9 cm (6.3 ± 1.5 vs 7.8 ± 1.6; mean difference −1.5; p = 0.002), and during the second stage (7.4 ± 1.6 vs 8.9 ± 1.7; mean difference −1.5; p = 0.001). Maternal satisfaction was higher with the intervention (4.3 ± 0.7 vs 3.5 ± 0.8; mean difference 0.8; p < 0.001). Conclusion: A multimodal non-pharmacological intervention bundle significantly reduced labour pain and enhanced maternal satisfaction compared with standard care, supporting its integration into routine intrapartum practice in resource-limited settings.