• Siriwan Yuenyong, Beverley O'Brien, and Veena Jirapeet.
• Faculty of Nursing, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand.
• J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2012 Jan 1;41(1):45-56.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of a close female relative providing emotional and physical support during active labor and birth.DesignRandomized, two-group controlled clinical trial.SettingRegional teaching hospital in the eastern part of Thailand with 782 beds.ParticipantsPrimiparous women (N = 120) whose gestational ages were ≥ 36 weeks and who had uncomplicated pregnancies.MethodsParticipants were randomly assigned to receive usual care and support from a chosen close female relative from admission until 2 hours after birth or usual care only. Within 24 hours of birth, labor outcomes (length of labor & type of birth) and levels of maternal satisfaction were assessed.ResultsThose in the experimental group had a significantly shorter duration of active labor and were more satisfied with their childbirth experiences than those in the control group. Differences between groups with respect to incidence of spontaneous delivery were not found.ConclusionsA close female relative was effective in providing supportive care during labor and delivery. The integration of this nursing intervention for women and their families at public hospitals in Thailand is supported.© 2012 AWHONN, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.

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