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Abstract

Background: Labour pain is a multi-dimensional phenomenon and its effective management forms the part of intrapartum care. Although there are pharmacological approaches, there are non-pharmacological approaches that are safe and cost-effective and may lead to better birth outcomes and maternal satisfaction.


Objective: This research sought to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of non-pharmacological methods of pain management during labour among midwives in all secondary health facilities in Rivers West senatorial Zone of Rivers State, Nigeria.


Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed as a descriptive study with a sample of 427 midwives in Rivers West senatorial Zone of Rivers state. The semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data on socio-demographics, knowledge, attitude, practice, and perceived barriers. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for data analysis. Data collection was preceded by ethical approval and informed consent.


Results: Most of the respondents (35.4) belonged to the age group of 30-39 years, with 49.4% having a BNSc degree. The level of knowledge was very high as 99.5% of participants have identified the advantages of position changes and 98.4% have known about massage. Attitudes were largely positive; 99.8% indicated that non-pharmacological approaches work. Concerning practice, 61.6% of midwives said they always used these techniques, with emotional support (59.3%), and breathing exercises (28.1) being the most prevalent. There were significant correlations between knowledge of particular techniques (e.g., breathing exercises, p = 0.001) and frequency of use. Heavy workload (57.4%), and insufficient staffing (22.0%) were major barriers identified.


Conclusion: Midwives in Rivers West senatorial Zone have a high level of knowledge and positive attitudes towards non-pharmacological labour pain management. Nevertheless, institutional obstacles, like workload and shortage of staff, prevent regular utilization. These systemic concerns should be addressed by complementing staffing and frequent refresher training to make the most of maternal care.

Keywords

Maternal Comfort Rivers West Senatorial Zone Non-pharmacological Pain Management Midwives Labour Pain

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Faith, T.-O., Ibidabo, A., & Ugege, E. (2026). Practice of Non-Pharmacological Pain Management Techniques during Labour among Midwives in Secondary Health Facilities, Rivers West Senatorial Zone. Journal of Public Health and Toxicological Research, 3(3), 318–324. https://doi.org/10.71637/jphtr.vol3no3.68
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