The Effect of Lamaze Practices on the Outcome of Pregnancy and Labor in Primpara Women

BACKGROUND: The present study discussed the effect of Lamaze practices on the outcome of pregnancy and labor in primpara women referring to selected hospital of Tehran university of medical sciences in 2005. METHODS: This study was a controlled semi-experimental clinical trial. Samples included 70 selected women referring to selected hospitals in Tehran. The subjects were divided into control and study group. Study group received Lamaze technique included a training program for the study group containing 6 sessions. In each session, various subjects based on educational program were taught. Subjects were followed from 24-26 weeks of pregnancy to 24 hours after delivery. A checklist and a questionnaire were used for collecting the data. Data was analyzed by SPSS software. RESULTS: The findings showed the subjects were the same regarding demographic characteristics and level of knowledge concerning various methods of labor and Lamaze technique. There was no significant difference between two groups regarding the type of delivery, longitude of the first stage of delivery and the first and fifth minute APGAR score as well as mean gestational age. But, a significant difference in frequency of normal vaginal delivery and forceps or vacuum usage between two groups was mentioned (p<0.05). The duration of the second stage of delivery in study group was less while the mean weight of the newborns was more than the controls (p<0.05). The study group was more satisfied with their labor (p<0.05). DISCUSSION: The findings showed Lamaze practices can increase satisfaction of labor process. It can decrease the length of second stage of delivery. Inclusion of Lamaze technique in maternal care programs is highly suggested.