The effect of partner massage on pain, anxiety, and the birth process in labor

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of partner massage on pain, anxiety, and the birth process during labor. This is a randomized controlled experimental study. It was conducted between August 1, 2022 and August 1, 2023 in a medical faculty hospital. Methods: The data of the study were collected from three groups, namely the partner massage group, midwife massage group, and control group at three different times (at cervical dilation of 4 cm before massage application, at cervical dilation of 5–6 cm following the application, and at cervical dilation of 8–9 cm following the application). Data collection was completed with a total of 135 pregnant women, by randomising 45 in each group. Back and sacral massage were applied to the pregnant women in the application groups when dilation was 5–6 cm and 8–9 cm. Data collection tools included a Pregnant Information Form, a Labor Monitoring Form, the Partograph, a Visual Analogue Scale, the State Anxiety Inventory, Assessment of Satisfaction Scale. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of participants’ sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics (p > 0.05). Following the massage application, it was determined that the three groups had statistically different mean pain scores (p < 0.001), with the control group having the highest pain score and the partner massage group the lowest. The three groups had statistically different state anxiety scores (p < 0.001), with the highest score in the control group and the lowest in the partner massage group. The duration of the active phase was significantly longer in the control group than in the partner massage group. Conclusion: Massage applied to the expectant mother by the partner during labor was effective in reducing pain and anxiety levels.