The effect of partner massage in labor on pain, anxiety and birth process

Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of partner massage during labor on pain, anxiety and the birth process. Method: The research is a randomized controlled experimental study. It was conducted at Necmettin Erbakan University Faculty of Medicine Hospital in Konya province between 01.08.2022-01.08.2023. The data of the study were collected from three groups as partner massage group, midwife (researcher) massage group, and control group in three different time periods (cervical dilation was 4 cm before application, cervical dilation was 5-6 cm and 8-9 cm after application). The study data were completed with a total of 135 women, 45 pregnant women for each group. Except for the control group, back and sacral massage was applied to the pregnant women in the application groups when the dilation was 5-6 cm and 8-9 cm. The data of the study were collected using the Pregnant Information Form, Labor Monitoring Form, Partograph, Visual Analog Scale, State Anxiety Scale, Massage Application Satisfaction Assessment Scale and Form, and Labor Process Satisfaction Assessment Scale and Form. Statistical analyses of the study were performed using SPSS 25. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA and eta squared tests were performed. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of sociodemographic information of the participants (p>0.05). In terms of mean pain scores, it was determined that the three groups had statistically different pain scores (F=201.31; p<0.001), the highest pain score was in the control group and the lowest pain score was in the partner massage group. In terms of mean anxiety scores, it was determined that the three groups had statistically different state anxiety scores (F=706.70, p<0.001), the highest state anxiety score was in the control group and the lowest score was in the partner massage group. It was determined that the active phase duration of the participants in the control group was significantly higher than that of the partner massage group. Conclusion: Massage applied to the expectant mother by the midwife or partner during the labor process is effective in reducing pain and anxiety levels.