Efficacy of Breathing Patterns in the First Stage of Labor for Maternal Pain, Anxiety, and Satisfaction [292

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Maternal pain and anxiety can interfere in the labor process. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the breathing patterns during the active phase of the first stage of labor for maternal anxiety, pain, and satisfaction. METHODS: This was a randomized controlled clinical trial involving 60 low-risk primigravid women, 16 to 35 years old, between 37 and 41 weeks of gestation. The participants received either breathing patterns during contraction (deep inspiration and prolonged or fractioned exhalation) or usual care during the active phase of the first stage of labor. At baseline and after 2 hours the level of maternal anxiety was measured by State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (ranked by low and high) and pain and satisfaction by visual analogic scale. Mean difference and relative risk (RR) were calculated to show the effect size of the intervention for the outcomes as well as the χ2 and Student's t tests to assess association between variables. RESULTS: There was no difference in the maternal pain (mean difference 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.738 to 1.184; P=.64) and maternal level of anxiety (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.318–2.40; P=.99). The satisfaction increased in the breathing group (mean difference 2.57, 95% CI 0.843–4.291; P=.005). CONCLUSION: The results show that the use of breathing patterns during the first stage of labor may not control maternal pain and anxiety, but it increases their satisfaction. Therefore, adoption of breathing orientation should be considered according to the values and preferences of the mother.