The effect of music in gynaecological office procedures on pain, anxiety and satisfaction: a randomized controlled trial

N Mak,S A Slockers,J W M Maas,E H M N Westen,I M A Reinders,M Y Bongers

doi:10.1186/s10397-017-1016-2

N Mak, S A Slockers + Show 4 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s10397-017-1016-2

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Abstract

BackgroundPain can interfere with office procedures in gynaecology. The aim of this study is to measure the positive effect of music in gynaecological office procedures.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was performed between October 2014 and January 2016. Women scheduled for an office hysteroscopy or colposcopy were eligible for randomization in the music group or control group. Stratification for hysteroscopy and colposcopy took place. The primary outcome is patients’ level of pain during the procedure measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes include patients’ level of pain after the procedure, anxiety and satisfaction of patient and doctor.ResultsNo positive effect of music on patients’ perception of pain during the procedure was measured, neither for the hysteroscopy group (57 mm vs. 52 mm) nor for the colposcopy group (32 mm vs. 32 mm). Secondary outcomes were also similar for both groups.ConclusionsThis study showed no positive effect of music on patients’ level of pain, anxiety or satisfaction of patient or doctor for office hysteroscopy and colposcopy. We believe a multimodal approach has to be used to decrease patient distress in terms of pain and anxiety, with or without music.Trial registrationDutch Trial Register, NTR4924

Highlights

Pain can interfere with office procedures in gynaecology
The aim of this study is to demonstrate the complementary value of music in gynaecological office procedures on patients’ level of pain, anxiety and satisfaction during and after the procedure in daily practice
No statistical significance was found for pain during the procedure between the music group and the control group (57.1 (25.7) mm vs. 51.6 (27.1) mm, p = .382)

Summary

Introduction

Pain can interfere with office procedures in gynaecology. The aim of this study is to measure the positive effect of music in gynaecological office procedures. Office procedures in gynaecology are widely used to diagnose and directly treat gynaecological abnormalities [1–3]. Pain and anxiety remain problems that may impede the procedure and can contribute to a negative experience for the patient [4–8]. Listening to music could be an easy and non-invasive way to decrease pain and anxiety. The literature is not clear about the efficacy of music therapy. Music for pain relief of any type was previously examined in a review including 31 studies. The studies showed a high variation in the results.

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