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Related Experiment Videos

Low-back pain during labor.

R Melzack, D Schaffelberg

    American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    |April 1, 1987
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    A significant portion of women experience severe, continuous low-back pain during labor, distinct from contraction pain. This distinct pain may require different management strategies.

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    Area of Science:

    • Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Pain Management
    • Anesthesiology

    Background:

    • Labor pain intensity and location vary significantly among women.
    • While abdominal pain is common, severe back pain is also frequently reported during labor.
    • Continuous low-back pain during labor is often distinct from pain associated with uterine contractions.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the characteristics and prevalence of continuous low-back pain during labor.
    • To differentiate continuous low-back pain from the pain of uterine contractions.
    • To explore potential mechanisms and management strategies for different types of labor pain.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized the McGill Pain Questionnaire to assess pain quality.
    • Correlated patient-reported pain levels with cardiotachographic records of contractions.

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  • Quantified the incidence and severity of continuous low-back pain.

    • Main Results:

    • Approximately 33% of women in labor reported severe, continuous low-back pain.
    • This pain was qualitatively different from the rhythmic pain of uterine contractions.
    • Combined pain intensity, with contraction pain superimposed on low-back pain, could reach excruciating levels.

    Conclusions:

    • Continuous low-back pain during labor is a significant and distinct entity, likely originating from peritoneal structures.
    • The rhythmic pain of labor contractions is related to uterine activity.
    • Different anesthesiologic and psychological approaches may be necessary for managing these distinct types of labor pain.