Reviewing the effect of reflexology on the pain and certain features and outcomes of the labor on the primiparous women
Moderate EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology for pregnancy, explained
Reflexology is one of the non-pharmacological pain relief methods, and since it is a non-invasive, inexpensive and applicable technique, it can be used by a skilled and trained midwife. This study aimed to review the effect of reflexology on the pain and outcomes of the labor. In this quasi-experimental study, 88 primiparous mothers referred to selected hospitals of Isfahan for vaginal delivery were selected using simple random sampling method and then randomized in two groups. Data collection tools were the demographic data questionnaire, profile and outcomes of the labor and the short-form of the McGill Questionnaire for Pain Rating Index (PRI) assessment. The intervention was general and specific reflexology in the active phase of labor. PRI was assessed before the intervention and four times after the intervention (3-5 cm, 6-8 cm and 9-10 cm dilatations and second stage of labor. There was no significant difference between groups before intervention. In the reflexology group, there was a significant difference between the PRI before and after the 4 stages intervention (p < 0.001). PRI was different significantly between studied groups after intervention (p < 0.001). The length of active phase of labor was different significantly between the two groups; but this difference was not significant during the second (p = 0.29), and the third (p = 0.27) stages. The difference between the 1(st) minute and the 5(th) minute Apgar score (p < 0.001) and rate of hemorrhage between the two groups were different significantly (p = 0.02). Reflexology can lead to decrease in the labor pain. Therefore, regarding to the safety of this technique, it can be replaced as an alternative for pharmacological methods.
Key Findings: what this observational study found about pregnancy
- ✓Reflexology was applied as a non-pharmacological pain relief intervention during the active phase of labor in primiparous women, with pain assessed at multiple cervical dilation stages.
- ✓The study found no significant differences between the reflexology and control groups at baseline before the intervention was implemented.
What This Means for You
Reflexology appears to reduce labor pain effectively during active labor, though it may not shorten the later stages of delivery—discuss with your healthcare provider if you're interested in this non-drug pain relief option.
What This Means for Practitioners
Reflexology can significantly reduce pain ratings during active labor and shorten the active phase, making it a valuable tool for trained midwives to offer as a non-invasive pain management option.
Study Design: how this observational study was run
Reflexology for pregnancy: common questions
Does reflexology help with pregnancy?
Reflexology appears to reduce labor pain effectively during active labor, though it may not shorten the later stages of delivery—discuss with your healthcare provider if you're interested in this non-drug pain relief option.
What did this study find?
Reflexology was applied as a non-pharmacological pain relief intervention during the active phase of labor in primiparous women, with pain assessed at multiple cervical dilation stages. The study found no significant differences between the reflexology and control groups at baseline before the intervention was implemented.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a observational study and we rate its evidence moderate. It covers 88 participants. It was published in Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research, a Q1 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
Related Research
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The effect of prenatal yoga and reflexology in reducing labor duration and perceived pain; a systematic review and meta-analysis
Effect of acupressure and reflexology on pregnancy constipation: a quasi-experimental study
The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Postpartum Comfort and Breastfeeding Outcomes in Postpartum Women: A Meta-Analysis Study
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