ASSESSMENT OF MATERNAL SATISFACTION WITH EPIDURAL ANALGESIA DURING LABOR PAIN

Abstract

Background: Labour pain is widely recognized as one of the most intense forms of pain experienced by women. This study aims to examine the satisfaction with epidural analgesia in managing labour pain.

Methodology: This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted at Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, to assess maternal satisfaction with epidural analgesia during labour. A total of 80 pregnant women in active labour who opted for epidural analgesia were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected from July to August 2024 using a demographic form and the validated Patient Satisfaction with Perioperative Anesthetic Care Questionnaire (PSPACQ). Participants completed self-administered questionnaires assessing satisfaction, pain levels, and any complications. Written informed consent was obtained, and confidentiality was ensured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 through descriptive statistics and visualized using bar charts and histograms.

Results: The majority of participants were aged 18–30 years (51.2%), housewives (65%), married for 1–5 years (50%), and had primary education (50%). Most were primigravida (57.5%). Regarding satisfaction with epidural analgesia, 83.7% of participants reported excellent satisfaction, 8.75% reported good satisfaction, and 6.25% reported average satisfaction. No participants reported poor satisfaction, indicating a high overall level of satisfaction with epidural pain management during labour.

Conclusion: The study concludes that epidural analgesia is highly effective and well accepted for labour pain management, with the majority of women reporting excellent satisfaction. The findings suggest broad acceptance across diverse socio-demographic groups, particularly among young, primigravida women in their early years of marriage.