Effect of Third Trimester Lamaze Preparation on Labor Pain Intensity and Pregnancy Outcome

Abstract

Background: Labor pain is unique and it is been accepted as a necessary part of childbirth. One of the practical methods that can be used to reduce labor pain is Lamaze childbirth preparation. It is a 'tool' that helps the women to maintain control during uterine contraction with relaxation. Objective: To determine the effect of third trimester Lamaze preparation on labor pain intensity and pregnancy outcome. Design: a quasi-experimental research design. Setting: The study was conducted in a private clinic as well as Walei- El-ahd private hospital. Subjects: A convenience sample of 100 pregnant women Tools: Four tools were used for data collection. The first tool was Socio-demographic, reproductive and clinical data structured interview schedule, The second tool Visual analog scale to assess labor pain intensity. The third tool was present behavioral intensity scale to assess women`s behavioral response to pain. the fourth tool was Pregnancy outcome assessment checklist to assess maternal and fetal outcome. Results: Findings of the present study revealed that the total score of pain intensity was significantly decreased among the study group after intervention (p=<0.001). In addition, the study group had positive maternal and fetal outcome compared to the control group. Conclusion: The study concluded that parturient women who receive third trimester Lamaze preparation exhibit lower labor pain intensity during first and second stage and more positive pregnancy outcome than those who won`t receive it. Recommendations: Designing and applying Lamaze childbirth preparation classes as an essential component of standard antenatal care at different affiliated Egyptian public hospitals.