Effect of Lamaze practice on the outcome of pregnancy and labor in primipara women referred to selected university hospitals in 2005

Abstract

Introduction: The present study discusses the effect of Lamaze practice on the outcome of pregnancy and labor in primipara women referred to selected university hospital in 2005.

Methods: This research was implemented by semi-empirical method (clinical training) as a double stage, double group (two groups with either Lamaze or control practice) design. Samples included 70 selected women referred to selected hospitals in Tehran. The subjects were included in two groups of control and study since 24-26 weeks of pregnancy. A checklist and a questionnaire were used for data collection. Lamaze technique included a training program for the study group containing 6 sessions. In each session, subjects were followed up until 24 hours after delivery.

Results: The findings showed that the subjects in the two groups were similar regarding demographic characteristics and the level of awareness concerning various methods of labor and Lamaze technique. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the type of delivery through caesarian section method, longitude of the first stage of delivery and APGAR scores of the newborns at the first and fifth minutes post-delivery as well as the mean age of pregnancy. But, there was a significant difference regarding the frequency of vaginal delivery and forceps and vacuum deliveries. The mean duration of the second stage of delivery in study group was shorter while the mean weight of the newborns was higher compared with the controls. The women in study group exposed to Lamaze practices were more satisfied with their labors.

Conclusion: The findings showed that Lamaze practices can increase labor process satisfaction and reduce the length of the second stage of labor. Inclusion of Lamaze technique in maternal care programs is highly suggested.