Comparison of the Efficacy of Virtual Reality Glasses versus Mint Gum for Pain and Anxiety Relief During Episiotomy Repair: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract

Background: Pain and discomfort associated with episiotomy, especially during its repair, are significant sources of fear among women and may contribute to increased rates of cesarean section. This study aimed to compare the effects of virtual reality (VR) glasses and mint gum on pain intensity and anxiety during episiotomy repair among primiparous women.

Materials and methods: In this single-blind randomized clinical trial, 108 eligible primiparous women were randomly assigned to three groups using block randomization: VR glasses (n = 36), mint gum (n = 36), and control (n = 36). Pain intensity was measured at four time points using the visual analoge scale, and anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory 1 h after the repair. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27 via one-way analysis of variance, Tukey's post hoc test, Kruskal-Wallis, and Chi-square tests, as appropriate.

Results: No significant differences in pain or anxiety were observed between the groups before the intervention (p > 0.05). However, pain and anxiety scores were significantly lower in both intervention groups than in the control group (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the VR and mint gum groups.

Conclusions: Both VR glasses and mint gum were effective in reducing pain and anxiety during episiotomy repair. As low-cost, nonpharmacological interventions, they can be recommended for routine use in maternity care.