The Effect of Reflexology on Labor

Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of reflexology, one of the non-pharmacological methods used in the management of labor pain, on anxiety, labor duration, labor pain, and labor satisfaction in primiparous pregnant women. Background: Labor pain is one of the most severe types of pain experienced by a woman throughout her life. As a result of the labor pain and birth-related stress, maternal and fetus health is negatively affected. Controlling of labor pain will decrease the anxiety and tension experienced by pregnant woman. Design: A randomized controlled experimental was used. Method: A total of 60 women participated in the study in 2 groups of 30 for reflexology and control groups. By giving appropriate position in the first stage of delivery to the pregnant women in the experimental group, 10-minute massage was applied to both feet including 5-minute massage for each foot starting first from the right foot by using vaseline under the supervision of a doctor to facilitate the hand movements, then the reflexology technique was applied by stimulating the nerve points by applying pressure to reflex regions of each foot for 20 minutes as totally 40 minutes for both feet. The control group was composed of pregnant women who received routine treatment, care and applications of the hospital.