Postnatal Women’s Labour Pain Experiences in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria: A Qualitative Study

Abstract:

Labour pain experience has posed a lot of worries for women all over the world. This study investigated women’s experiences of labour pain during childbirth in three health centers in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. A qualitative phenomenological study design was adopted, with a population comprising of post-natal women who came for six weeks post-delivery check-up. In-depth interviews were conducted and thematic data analysis was done. Findings showed that labour pain was described as sharp, sometimes unbearable and terrible but is a normal thing for every pregnant woman to experience during labour. In addition, pregnant women used some coping strategies such as walking up and down, and lying on their side. It was concluded that women experienced sharp and severe pain during labour but with a positive perception that such pain is normal for every woman in labour. It is recommended that, health care workers especially midwives should put more effort to inform pregnant women about the various labour pain coping strategies during their antenatal visits.