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The negative birth experience of prolonged labour: a case-referent study
Astrid Nystedt1, Ulf Högberg, Berit Lundman
1Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden. astrid.nystedt@nurs.umu.se
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|April 21, 2005
Summary
Women experiencing prolonged labor reported more negative childbirth experiences and lasting difficulties compared to those with normal labor. Understanding these perceptions is key to improving maternal care and support during childbirth.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal Health
- Psychological Aspects of Childbirth
Background:
- Prolonged labor, or dystocia, is a frequent complication during childbirth.
- Dystocia often leads to adverse birth experiences for women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and describe women's perceptions of childbirth after prolonged versus normal labor.
- To compare the childbirth experiences of women with prolonged labor to those with normal labor.
Main Methods:
- A case-referent study was conducted with first-time mothers in Sweden.
- Cases (n=84) had prolonged labor with assisted delivery; referents (n=171) had normal labor.
- Participants completed questionnaires on childbirth experiences and personal history.
Main Results:
- Women with prolonged labor reported negative experiences more often (34% vs. 4%).
- Prolonged labor was associated with greater perceived need for pain relief and lasting psychological impact.
- No differences were found in perceived professional or social support between groups.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged labor significantly impacts women's childbirth experience, often negatively.
- Addressing pain and psychological distress is crucial for improving care for women with prolonged labor.
- Midwives and doctors can mitigate negative experiences by focusing on pain management and emotional support.