Effectiveness of flower essences in labor and birth: evaluation of obstetric and neuroendocrine parameters

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of floral therapy associated with factors that strengthen pain and stress in the labor process through obstetric and neuroendocrine parameters. Methods: Randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial performed with 164 parturients at usual obstetric risk subdivided into two groups to which Five Flower floral essence and placebo were administered. Obstetric and neuroendocrine aspects were evaluated through biochemical analysis of the beta-endorphin and cortisol hormones through salivary samples before and after the intervention. Results: The flower essence modulated the factors that strengthen pain in labor, that is, rupture of amniotic membranes, active phase and induction of labor. There was an increase in beta-endorphin levels along with one less contraction in women with ruptured ovular membranes and labor induction. Regarding stress, cortisol values were constant for the Experimental group, and did not change in the active phase, rupture of the ovular membranes or induction. The Five Flower essence proved to be effective in reducing labor time by 1 hour 25 minutes in the Experimental group. Conclusion: The floral therapy used proved to be effective in controlling pain and stress during labor, and reflected positively on its agility and qualified its outcome.