[Psychoprophylaxis and the rate of cesarean section]

Rev Med Inst Mex Seguro Soc. 2010 Jul-Aug;48(4):439-42.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Background: The psychoprophylactic programs (PPP) have been widely used in women to face the fear-tension-pain cycle, reducing anxiety and pain during labour. The aim was to demonstrate if a PPP reduces the caesarean rate.

Methods: 300 low risk pregnant women were included; 100 in the PPP group and 200 in the control group. The PPP participants attended theory and practical sessions; they visited labor, delivery, recovery and hospitalization areas. Chi-square, Student's t test and odds ratio were applied.

Results: Pregnancy ended by caesarean section in 35/100 of PPP group and in 99/200 (49.5%) in control group (p < 0.02, OR = 1.8, IC = 1.1-2.9). Maternal complications occurred in 13/100 in the PPP group, and 42/200 (21%) in control group (p = 0.09, RM = 0.56). The newborn (NB) complications were observed in 9/100 in PPP and 46/200 (23%) in control group (p < 0.02, OR = 0.33). In the PPP group, 70% assisted to three or more sessions. Hospital stance in control group, accumulated 17 days more in mothers and 171 days more in NB than in the PPP group.

Conclusions: In PPP group observed a caesarean rate reduction with fewer maternal and perinatal complications.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Relaxation Therapy*
  • Young Adult