Non-pharmacological Resources in Assisting Labor

"A sequence of non-pharmacological resources were applied to the patient by the researcher according to uterine cervical dilation, as follows:~* Pelvic mobility on the exercise ball oriented and accompanied by the researcher for 40 minutes;~* Lumbosacral massage for a period of 40 minutes, when dilation was between 5 and 6 cm. During the procedure, the woman in labor was allowed to freely choose the most comfortable position; and,~* Warm shower with the water flow directed to the lower-back of the woman in labor, for 40 minutes, when uterine cervical dilation was equal to or higher than 7cm."

Routine care of the institution performed by the staff, without the presence of the researcher that included offering a balanced meal, continuous support with the presence of a partner or family throughout labor, use of oxytocin when prescribed by the staff, use of drug analgesia when requested by the patient.