Effect of Spleen 6 Point Acupressure on Severity of Labor Pain, Duration of Labor, and Women's Satisfaction.

Abstract

Introduction: Severe and unmanageable labor pain can adversely affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Among non-pharmacological methods, acupressure is increasingly recognized for its intrapartum benefits; however, further supportive evidence is needed.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of spleen 6 point (SP6) acupressure on the severity of labor pain, duration of labor, and women's satisfaction.

Methods: A quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design was employed. The intervention was applied to 96 parturient women in a governmental hospital, following specific inclusion criteria. Data were collected using a structured interview questionnaire, a visual analogue pain scale, an observational checklist for labor progress, and a satisfaction assessment tool.

Results: The intensity of labor pain decreased following the application of SP6 acupressure across different stages of cervical dilation. Most participants experienced a shorter duration of both the active phase and second stage of labor compared to standardized references. Additionally, the majority of women reported satisfaction with the intervention.

Conclusion: SP6 acupressure could appear to be an effective non-pharmacological method for reducing the labor pain and could short the labor duration. It was also associated with a high level of maternal satisfaction.