Non-pharmacological methods for pain relief during labor: integrative review

This integrative review aimed to search available evidences on literature about non-pharmacological methods for pain relief during labuor. The database used were LILACS, SCIELO, BDENF e PUBMED. Among the reviewed literature, 19 studies published between 2003 and 2013 were included and evaluated: percutaneous electrical stimulation, breathing exercise technique, walking or changing position, massage, muscular relaxation, hydrotherapy, cryotherapy and doula assistance. The results showed that the use of percutaneous electrical stimulation is more frequent during beginning of the first phase of labor; other associated methods (lumbosacral massage, breathing exercise and relaxation), hydrotherapy and cryotherapy propitiated the reduction of pain scores in the active phase; doula participation was also considered important for transmitting security and confidence to the parturient. Thus, these methods bring to the conclusion that valuing women's freedom, offering alternatives and comfort measures, is an important way on assisting the parturient during labor.