Birthing Ball Gymnastics Technique to Reduce Labor Morbidity and Mortality

Abstract

Background: For a woman, discomfort, fear and pain are problems during labor. Pain during the first stage of labor is intense and prolonged, thus necessitating proper management to address it. Labor pain and its management are critical concerns for women. The pain arises from both physical reflexes and the psychological response of the mother, including anxiety and fear, which can lead to panic. Effective pain management can provide an unforgettable experience. Addressing labor pain is a crucial intervention, and the birthing ball has proven to be an important tool in this regard. Birthing ball is a non-pharmacological method to reduce labor pain, the mother can have a positive birth experience, as it increases cervical dilatation and also expands the pelvic cavity, helping to align the longitudinal axis of the fetus with the birth axis which in turn shortens the duration of the first stage and supports vaginal delivery, the upright position during labor encourages the descent of the fetus aided by gravity, while also increasing pelvic dimensions. Women who use the birthing ball also feel psychologically empowered as they take an active role in their own care during labor, aiding in pain management.

Objective: to examine the effect of using a birthing ball on labor pain intensity during the active phase of the first stage of labor.

Research method: This study is quantitative research using a quasi-experimental approach with a one-group pre-test-post-test design. The sample consisted of 30 respondents selected through purposive sampling, using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) observation sheet. Data analysis was conducted using the paired t-test.

Results: : The study found that the average pain intensity during the active phase of the first stage of labor before using the birthing ball was 7.29 (severe pain), and after using the birthing ball, it was 6.06 (moderate pain). The paired t-test showed that there is a significant effect of using a birthing ball on labor pain intensity during the active phase of the first stage of labor with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.005).

Conclusion: There is an effect of using birthing ball on labor pain intensity in active phase of the first stage of labor.

Suggestion: To encourage collaboration between midwives and doctors in the use of birthing balls to ensure a holistic and comprehensive approach to labor pain management.