Original Research Article
Year: 2014 | Month: February | Volume: 4 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 124-128
Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Labour Pain and Duration of Labour among Primigravidas: A Pilot Study
Janula Raju1, Mahipal Singh2
1Research Scholar, JJT University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, India.
2Principal, Akhil Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Nursing, Sikar, Rajasthan, India.
Corresponding Author: Janula Raju
ABSTRACT
Background: Labour pain relief has been considered since many years ago. Aromatherapy as a non pharmacological method of pain relief helps reducing the pain intensity and increases maternal satisfaction. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of the aromatherapy on the labour pain and duration of labour among primigravida women.
Methods: In this clinical trial study, 60 low risk nulliparous women were randomly divided into two aromatherapy massage and massage without aromatherapy groups. The pain intensity was assessed by using visual pain analogue scale. The intensity of pain between these two groups were compared in the latent phase (cervix dilated 3-4cm), active phase (cervix dilated 5-7cm) and transitional phase (cervix dilated 8-10cm) of labour. Maternal satisfaction was checked by a structured questionnaire.
Results: Results of research showed a significant decrease in the pain intensity and duration of labour in the aromatherapy group. Individual reviews showed that women in aromatherapy group were satisfied with pain relief and caesarean section was reduced. No women in either group had postpartum haemorrhage.
Conclusion: Aromatherapy is a cost effective nursing intervention that can decrease pain during labour and it may provide positive effect on delivery experience. It is suggested that aromatherapy can be used for decreasing pain during labour.
Key words: Aromatherapy, massage, labour pain, primigravidas, visual pain analogue scale