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Hydrotherapy use during labor: an integrative review
1University of Pennsylvania Health System and School of Nursing, 420 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. stringer@pobox.upenn.edu
The Online Journal of Knowledge Synthesis for Nursing
|July 19, 2003
Summary
Hydrotherapy offers a safe, nonpharmacological approach for laboring women, enhancing relaxation and satisfaction without increasing infection risks. This method aids cervical dilation during labor.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Hydrotherapy presents a nonpharmacological intervention for laboring women.
- It serves as an alternative method for pain management and coping during childbirth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current scientific evidence on hydrotherapy's effects during labor and delivery.
- To discuss indications, mechanisms, benefits, and implications for clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and synthesis of data-based articles on hydrotherapy in labor.
- Analysis of studies examining maternal and neonatal outcomes, labor progression, and satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Hydrotherapy is associated with increased relaxation, satisfaction, and diuresis, and lower blood pressure.
- No significant differences in maternal or neonatal infection rates were observed between bathers and nonbathers.
- Hydrotherapy during labor can increase cervical dilation, though it does not alter the total labor duration.
Conclusions:
- Hydrotherapy is a safe and effective nonpharmacological option for women during labor and delivery.
- It provides significant benefits without compromising maternal or neonatal safety.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate its practice implications.
