Efficacy of Reflexology on First Stage Labour Pains

Abstract

Reflexology is one of the non-pharmacological pain relief methods.  It is a non-invasive, inexpensive and applicable technique that can be used by a skilled and trained midwife. This study aims to identify the efficacy of reflexology on first stage labour pain.In this quasi-experimental study, 60 labouring women attending Maternity Hospital at Al-Madinah Al- Munawarah – the King of Saudi Arabia for Vaginal delivery were selected through non-probability sampling technique and then randomized in two groups (Intervention group has two sessions of reflexology and control group). Data collection tools were the demographic data questionnaire, physiological and behavioral response to pain sheet and behavioral pain intensity scale (VAS). Physiologic & behavioural response to pain and behaviorapain intensity were assessed before the Reflexology session and after the two sessions of reflexology.There was no significant difference between the two groups before the intervention while there was a significant difference between two groups after the intervention P= 0.0001. There was also a significant decrease in the physiological and behavioural response among the intervention group after the reflexology sessions.Reflexology can lead to decrease in the labour pain. Therefore, because of the safety of this technique, it can be utilized as an alternative for pharmacological methods.

Keywords: Reflexology, first stage labour pain, complimentary therapy