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CME Credit Offered
CME Credit Offered
Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Recording available 2/16-5/2
Recording available 2/16-5/2
AIUM Credit
AIUM Credit
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee
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Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee

Poster Session 2

Category: Labor

Poster Session 2

(696) Integrating Complementary Medicine in Labor: A Prospective Observational Study on Birth Experience and Outcomes

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM  
Objective:
To examine the association between the integration of certified complementary medicine (CM) practitioners in the labor room and the maternal birth experience—specifically satisfaction, perceived control and pain intensity. Secondary objectives included exploring associations between CM use and labor outcomes, and between specific CM modalities (massage, shiatsu, reflexology) and birth experience.

Study Design:
This prospective observational cohort study was conducted at Rabin Medical Center (Beilinson Hospital) between July 2023 and September 2024. Eligible participants were women aged 18+ undergoing routine vaginal birth. Exclusion criteria included elective cesarean or stillbirth. Data were collected via postpartum digital questionnaires and medical records. Of 672 participants, 138 (20.5%) received CM therapy during labor. Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney U, chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests (p≤0.05), and logistic/linear regression models to adjust for confounders.

Results:
Demographics and clinical characteristics were similar between groups. Women who received CM reported significantly lower average pain scores (6.55 vs. 7.19, p=0.013) and fewer reports of severe pain (54.7% vs. 67.2%, p=0.009). They also reported greater involvement in decision-making (88.3% vs. 80.0%, p=0.034) and higher responsiveness to concerns (92.0% vs. 81.5%, p=0.004). Satisfaction was higher in the CM group (mean 9.09 vs. 8.81, p=0.077). After adjusting for confounders, CM integration remained associated with reduced pain severity and improved perceived control. Among modalities, massage was significantly associated with increased control (p=0.020), and shiatsu with reduced pain (p=0.013). No statistically significant differences were found between groups in key labor outcomes, including mode of delivery, complications, or neonatal measures.

Conclusion:
Integrating CM practitioners in labor may enhance women's birth experience by reducing pain intensity and improving perceived control. Specific modalities may offer targeted benefits.