The Effect of Continuous Support Combined with Breathing Exercise on The Progress of Labor and Intrapartum Fatigue

Abstract

Introduction: Intrapartum fatigue is an unpleasant sensation and if allowed to continue will lead to exhaustion. It has a negative effect on the health of both mother and fetus. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of continuous support combined with breathing exercise on the progress of labor and intrapartum fatigue. Design: A non-randomized controlled clinical trial was utilized. Subjects: A purposive sample of 80 laboring women was recruited from labor and delivery unit of National Medical Institution in Damanhour, Albehera Governorate. Tools: Three tools were used for data collection. Tool (I): Socio-demographic and obstetric structured interview schedule, Tool (II): Partograph, Tool (III): Fatigue Continuum Form Checklist. Results: It was revealed that the mean descent of the fetal head and the mean duration, frequency and intensity of uterine contraction were significantly increased among the intervention group than the control group. Also, the mean cervical dilatation was significantly increased among the intervention group than the control group. In addition, the mean duration of the first, second and third stage of labor were significantly decreased among the intervention group than the control group (P=.003, P=.000 & P=.000). Furthermore, intrapartum fatigue was significantly decreased among the intervention group than the control group after intervention, (p=0.000). Conclusion: laboring women who receive continuous support combined with breathing exercise during their active phase of labor exhibit faster progress of labor and less intrapartum fatigue than those who received routine intervention. Recommendations: Continuous support combined with breathing exercise should be recommended as a non-pharmacological management to faster progress of labor and decrease fatigue level during labor.