The Impact of Massage and Shower, as Non-Pharmacological Interventions During Labor, on Birth Satisfaction, Maternal Comfort, and Breastfeeding Success
The Impact of Massage and Shower, as Non-Pharmacological Interventions During Labor, on Birth Satisfaction, Maternal Comfort, and Breastfeeding Success
Study Design This study is a quasi-experimental research designed to examine the effects of massage and warm shower-used as non-pharmacological methods during labor-on birth satisfaction, maternal comfort, and breastfeeding success.
tudy Population
The study was conducted in the delivery unit of a public hospital in Turkey in 2025. The sample consisted of women who were experiencing their first pregnancy and giving birth for the first time. Inclusion criteria were as follows:
Between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation,
Low-risk, singleton pregnancies,
Planned for vaginal delivery,
No significant obstetric complications during pregnancy,
Voluntarily agreed to participate in the study.
A total of 120 participants were randomly assigned into three groups:
Massage Group (n=430): Received massage during labor.
Shower Group (n=40): Took a warm shower during labor.
Control Group (n=40): Received routine standard hospital care without any additional intervention.
Data Collection Tools
Data were collected using the following instruments:
Personal Information Form
Birth Satisfaction Scale
Birth Comfort Scale
Breastfeeding Success Scale Intervention Massage Group: During the active phase of labor (cervical dilation of 4-7 cm), participants received 15-minute sessions of light-pressure massage to the lower back, sacrum, and lumbar area at regular intervals.
Shower Group: During the same phase, participants were assisted to take a warm shower for approximately 20 minutes.
Control Group: Received routine intrapartum care with no additional non-pharmacological intervention
Before the intervention (baseline during early labor),
Immediately after birth (for comfort and satisfaction),
Within the first 2 hours postpartum (for breastfeeding success).
Inclusion Criteria:
Between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation,
Low-risk, singleton pregnancies,
Planned for vaginal delivery,
No significant obstetric complications during pregnancy,
Voluntarily agreed to participate in the study.
Exclusion Criteria:
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