21 Mother’s Perception of Non-pharmacological labour pain relief methods in Tertiary Hospitals, Nigeria

Speakers:- Daughter Sample, Faith Diorgu & Halima Musa Abdul

Facilitator:-

Abstract:- Background: Labour pain is a multifaceted physiological and psychological experience. Non-pharmacological pain relief methods are increasingly promoted in maternity care due to their safety and potential to improve maternal childbirth experiences.

 Objectives: This study examined mothers’ perception of non-pharmacological labour pain relief methods in tertiary hospitals in Nigeria.

 Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey method was used across six federal tertiary hospitals representing the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. One hundred and sixty postpartum mothers who consented to the study were randomly selected . Data were collected using a structured questionnaire validated by experts (CVI = 0.808) with good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.887). 

 Results: Findings revealed overall negative perception among mothers regarding effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions (Grand median = 1.00). Many mothers did not consider the methods effective for relieving labour pain and doubted their ability to provide adequate control during labour or serve as alternatives to medical analgesia. However, substantial proportion (64.4% ) acknowledged that the interventions were safe for both mother and baby, represented a natural approach to childbirth, and helped reduce fear and anxiety during labour. Mothers generally reported that these methods did not completely eliminate pain and were not preferable to pharmacological pain relief.

 The study concludes that although mothers recognize the safety and supportive value of non-pharmacological approaches, they largely favour pharmacological methods due to perceived limited effectiveness.

 Recommendations: Improved antenatal education and counselling are recommen, ded to address misconceptions, enhance confidence, and improve acceptance of non-pharmacological labour pain management in Nigerian maternity care settings.

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