TITLE:
Labor Pain through the Eyes of Brazilian Women and Delivery Nurses
AUTHORS:
Rafaela Feitosa Coutinho, Taiane da Silva Alves, Alecssandra de Fátima Silva Viduedo, Rejane Antonello Griboski, Casandra G. R. M. P. de Leon, Juliana Machado Schardosim
KEYWORDS:
Labor Pain, Supplementary Health, Birth Humanization, Obstetrical Nursing, Nursing Care
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Nursing,
Vol.8 No.1,
January
30,
2018
ABSTRACT:
Objective: Understanding the perception of women who have recently given birth in a
Brazilian hospital regarding labor pain and nursing involvement in the labor
process. Methodology: exploratory, descriptive and qualitative study
carried out in a Maternity part of the supplementary health system in the
Federal District (DF). Data were collected between May and July 2015 through
interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The sample consisted of 16
mothers and data analysis followed Bardin methodology in three phases. Results: The pain experienced during labor is surrounded by feelings and expectations.
Both positive and negative feelings experienced by mothers were identified in the
interviews and unanimous opinion was the fact that the second stage is the most
painful period as continuous pain is experienced. Some of the participants compared
pain with strong menstrual cramps, renal colic and back pain; others, said
labor pain was the strongest ever experienced. The immediate contact with the
newborn was referred to as a reward for coping with breast pain and suffering.
Other factors such as the importance of follow-up, support and coping with the
pain and care provided by health staff were also highlighted. Conclusion: empowerment of the mother and family through knowledge is considered an
important tool to fight pain and cope with the birth process in a positive and
physiological way, which in the long run promotes a cultural change in the
population regarding the importance of vaginal birth.