Document Type
Poster
Associated Faculty
Dr. Valerie Herbert
Sponsoring Academic Department
School of Nursing
Publication Date
2025
Abstract/ Summary
Nulliparous mothers are faced with a plethora of pain management techniques when in active labor. This literature review compares non-pharmacological and pharmacological pain management techniques that best manage pain in nulliparous mothers during active labor. More specifically, comparing the Lamaze breathing technique to epidural analgesia. A literature search was conducted using CINAHL, and the Nursing Reference Center to identify the most effective pain management techniques for nulliparous mothers during active labor. The search included peer-reviewed articles or systematic reviews between 2019-2025, using keywords nulliparous, primiparous, Lamaze breathing, epidural, pain, and labor. Exclusion criteria for this search included articles that did not mention Lamaze breathing or epidural analgesia, and articles that did not effectively address pain management during active labor. Results of this search include studies that demonstrated Lamaze breathing when combined with nursing interventions, such as massage or use of a delivery ball, could be effective in improving labor pain and anxiety. Some studies suggest that other holistic approaches such as alternative breathing techniques and massage have similar potential. Additionally, articles found that epidurals, while effective for pain relief, may slow labor progression and are associated with increased rates of vacuum and forceps deliveries, and intense pushing. All of which increase the risk for neonatal complications such as increased fetal heart rate and reduced fetal oxygenation. Although the literature supports both Lamaze breathing and epidural analgesia for pain management during active labor, there may be an increased risk of maternal and fetal complications with epidural analgesia.
Repository Citation
Bourque, Isabelle; Caldwell, Sydney; Curry, Kalley; and Dimek, Isabel, "Pain Management Techniques in Nulliparous Mothers" (2025). Non-Thesis Student Work. 78.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/student_work/78
Version
other
Poster
