Knowledge, Perceptions and Desire to Pain Relief in Labor among Iranian Pregnant Women

Abstract

Background: One way to promote vaginal delivery and reduce unnecessary caesarean section, is paying attention to labor pain relief techniques. The aim was to investigate factors affecting the desire of pregnant women for painless delivery. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 325 pregnant women who referred to prenatal clinics in 2020 and met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using researcher-made questionnaire on painless delivery. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v.21. Results: Most of respondents (74%) were between 20-29 years old. 19.69% of participants were nulliparous and 62.76% had diploma. 72% were housewives. 56.61% of the participants had not enough information about pain relief in labor. Only 14 people of whom had information, (9.92%) desired to experience pain relief in labor. Many of the respondents 90.76% were worry about the effects of pain relief on their unborn. 44.68% of participants, who had information about pain relief in labor; got their information regarding the pain relief in labor internet sources. Conclusions: Due to the low level of awareness of pregnant women to use painless delivery and labor pain relief techniques, it is recommended that the necessary measures be taken in order to increase women’s knowledge of the benefits and limitations of painless delivery. Plain language summary: Labor pain is the most painful experience in many women’s lives. It causes a large number of unnecessary cesareans. There are different kinds of pain relief methods. However, it is used a little. This study investigated the information, attitude and tendency to pain relief in labor among pregnant women. It was declared that participants have a few information. They were unwilling to use pain relief methods duo to their probable side effects. So it is felt educational sessions about painless delivery during prenatal care.