Knowledge of midwives on non-pharmacological methods of pain management during labor at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. A cross-sectional study.
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Knowledge of non-pharmacological methods of labor pain management is a critical determinant of their utilization among midwives. The study aims to examine midwives' knowledge of non-pharmacological methods of pain management during labor at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used, and it utilized quantitative methods of data collection. The study was carried out at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. The study targeted all midwives at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. 30 midwives were chosen at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala District. A convenience sampling method was used in this study. Results: Regarding age, the majority of respondents, 12 (40%), were aged 26–30 years, followed by 8 (26.7%) in the 18–25 years bracket, 6 (20%) aged 31–35 years, and 4 (13.3%) were above 35 years. 25 (83.3%) identified breathing exercises, 22 (73.3%) identified position changes, 20 (66.7%) mentioned massage, 15 (50%) cited music therapy, 10 (33.3%) cited warm bath/hydrotherapy, 5 (16.7%) cited aromatherapy, and 3 (10%) were aware of acupuncture. 22 (73.3%) believed that NPPM were effective, 3 (10%) believed they were not effective, and 5 (16.7%) were not sure. On self-rated knowledge of NPPM, 12 (40%) rated their knowledge as good, 10 (33.3%) as fair, 5 (16.7%) as excellent, and 3 (10%) as poor. 12 (40%) of respondents reported having read guidelines or literature on NPPM, while 18 (60%) had not read any relevant materials. Conclusions: The study revealed that midwives at Kawempe National Referral Hospital have a generally high level of awareness of non-pharmacological methods of labour pain management, particularly for common techniques such as breathing exercises, position changes, and massage. Recommendations: Formulate and implement national policies and guidelines that promote and standardize the use of non-pharmacological methods for labor pain management.
DOI: 10.51168/ceaqxb26
Institutions: University of Kisubi, Kampala University
Language: English
Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204780331