A randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of peanut ball device during labor on maternal outcomes and stress levels

BACKGROUND: Prolonged labor increases the risk of complications such as pain and stress affecting the maternal outcome. This study explores the impact of peanut on the labor process in reducing the labor pain, stress levels, and the need for assisted or cesaerean deliveries, and promotes a noninvasive approach to combat labor outcomes by evaluating its impact on maternal well-being. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This block randomized controlled trial was carried out in the labor unit of a tertiary care hospital, involving, “768 low-risk primigravid women,” who were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 384) utilized peanut balls during labor when cervical dilatation reached 3–4 cm, and the control group (n = 384) received the standard care. The primary outcomes measured were the duration of 1^st and 2^nd stages of labor and the mode of delivery, while secondary outcomes focused on the pain perception and stress levels. RESULTS: This study revealed a substantial reduction in the duration of the active first stage of labor in the experimental arm (mean difference = −105.934 min) compared with the control arm (mean difference = −27.380 min). Moreover, a greater percentage of low-risk primigravid women in the experimental arm experienced normal vaginal delivery (84.9%) than those of control arm (68.8%). The participants in the experimental arm also reported significantly lower levels of pain and maternal stress than those of control arm. CONCLUSION: Employing the peanut ball device in labor resulted in notable benefits for the mother. So, educating expectant mothers about this non-invasive method can improve their health and comfort during labor. This approach encourages safer and more efficient delivery methods, thereby enhancing overall maternal care.