Effect of Counter-Pressure Versus Effleurage Massages on Labor Pain Intensity Among Parturient Women

Abstract

Context: Labor-related pain is a universal experience for parturient women. Several non- pharmacological methods have been utilized to relieve this pain including counter-pressure and effleurage massages. Aim: This study aimed to examine the effect of counter-pressure versus effleurage massages on labor pain intensity among parturient women. Methods: A quasi- experimental design (nonequivalent control group pretest/posttest) was adopted. A purposive sample of 96 parturient women was recruited and allocated to either control, counter-pressure, or effleurage massage group. This study was conducted at inpatient obstetrics and gynecology department of Kafrelsheikh general hospital, Kafrelsheikh governorate, Egypt. Data were collected using two tools: structured interviewing questionnaire schedule and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Results: The mean pain scores at baseline assessment did not show a significant difference between the control group and interventions groups (p>0.05). However, at 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours after intervention the differences in mean pain scores between the control group and interventions groups were highly statistically significant (p < 0.001). When comparing mean pain scores between counter-pressure and effleurage groups the differences were not statistically significant either at baseline assessment or after intervention (p>0.05). Conclusion: counter- pressure and effleurage massages are effective non-pharmacological measures in reducing labor pain. Recommendation: Utilizing such simple and effective pain relief strategies by nurses and midwives should be encouraged.