Clinical Research Directory

Stress Ball Intervention During Active Labor

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effect of a stress ball intervention used during the active phase of labor primarily on maternal self-efficacy, while secondarily examining childbirth comfort, labor pain intensity, and labor progress. Labor pain is a multidimensional experience influenced by physiological and psychological factors, including coping and perceived control. Simple non-pharmacological interventions may support women's coping and active participation during labor. Participants in the intervention group use a stress ball during uterine contractions throughout the active phase of labor in addition to routine midwifery care, while participants in the control group receive routine midwifery care alone. Maternal self-efficacy and childbirth comfort are assessed at baseline during the active phase of labor and within 24 hours postpartum. Labor pain intensity is assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale at predefined cervical dilatation levels (5, 6, 8, and 10 cm). Labor progress parameters, including uterine contraction characteristics and fetal heart rate, are also monitored throughout the active phase. The primary objective is to determine whether stress ball use during active labor improves maternal self-efficacy. Secondary objectives are to evaluate its effects on childbirth comfort and labor pain intensity and to examine whether the intervention adversely affects physiological labor progress.