Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Anxiety and Pain Perception in Women During Childbirth

Study Summary Objective of the StudyThis study aims to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy on women's childbirth experiences, particularly in reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, and increasing overall satisfaction with labor. The research seeks to explore whether aromatherapy can serve as an effective, non-pharmacological method to improve comfort during childbirth. Research QuestionDoes the use of aromatherapy during labor reduce pain intensity, lower anxiety levels, and enhance maternal satisfaction compared to standard obstetric care? HypothesisIt is hypothesized that the use of aromatherapy during labor helps to decrease anxiety, lessen labor pain, and improve the overall birth experience without negatively affecting the health of the mother or newborn. Brief Description of the StudyThis study is a randomized controlled clinical trial conducted at the Stefan Żeromski Specialist Hospital in Kraków. It will include women who are delivering vaginally between 37-42 weeks of gestation. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a group receiving aromatherapy (using essential oils such as lavender, clary sage, and lemon) or a control group receiving standard obstetric care without aromatherapy. The effectiveness of aromatherapy will be assessed based on pain perception, anxiety levels, labor duration, and newborn condition. The study aims to provide scientific evidence on the benefits of aromatherapy in labor, potentially contributing to its broader adoption in maternity care.