Effect of Acupressure Applied To Bl23 Point versus Crushed Ice Application on Postpartum Perineal Pain Intensity

Abstract

Background: Postpartum perineal pain is a distressing complaint affecting more than one fifth of women worldwide for about 10 days after normal vaginal delivery. It is always a nuisance to the new mother and can limit her mobility and quality of life which could have a negative impact on mother’s adaptation to her new role. Aim: Evaluate the effect of acupressure applied to BL23 points versus crushed ice application on postpartum perineal pain intensity. Methods: A quasi-experimental research design was used. A convenient sample of 100 postpartum women was recruited. Three tools of data collection were used: (1) basic data structured interview schedule (2) Visual analog scale (VAS). (3) A modified version of Chamber Price pain rating scale (CPPRS). Results: The study results revealed that there was no significant difference found between the acupressure and crushed ice pack groups in relation to perineal pain intensity immediately after interventions p= 0.106, while 1 hour after interventions the pain scores of the acupressure group were significantly lower compared to the crushed ice pack group p= 0.040. Conclusion: The severity of perineal pain decreased in both groups, but the effect of acupressure was superior on perineal pain reduction for a long term basis. Recommendations: Maternity nurse should incorporate acupressure and ice application as non-pharmacological interventions in their nursing care of postpartum women with perineal pain.