This study examined whether showering during labor affects pain, anxiety, comfort, satisfaction, and labor outcomes in women undergoing vaginal birth. Non-pharmacological methods are commonly used to support women during labor, and warm showering may help reduce discomfort and emotional distress during the labor process.

In this randomized controlled trial, pregnant women in active labor were assigned either to a shower group or to a control group receiving routine labor care. Women in the shower group were allowed to shower during labor under standardized conditions, while the control group received routine intrapartum care without showering. Pain and anxiety levels were assessed repeatedly during labor, while comfort and birth satisfaction were evaluated during and after birth using validated measurement tools.

The results of this study aim to contribute to evidence-based intrapartum care practices by evaluating the role of showering as a supportive intervention during labor.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women admitted to the labor unit during the study period
• Term pregnancy (37-41 weeks)
• Planned vaginal birth
• Cervical dilation greater than 5 cm
• Volunteered to participate and provided informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to communicate in Turkish
• Hearing or mental health conditions
• Conversion from vaginal birth to cesarean section
• Age under 18 years
• High-risk pregnancy (e.g., preeclampsia, diabetes, hypertension, multiple pregnancy, placental abnormalities)
• Use of epidural anesthesia