Utilization of Pain Control Measures Associated with Childbirth among Postpartum Mothers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Choba, Rivers State

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the use of pain management techniques related to childbirth among postpartum mothers at UPTH Choba in Rivers State. Three distinct objectives and research questions were developed to steer the study. The researcher employed a descriptive survey design and created a custom questionnaire for gathering data. The study identified several sources of pain for postpartum mothers, including breast engorgement, uterine contractions, perineal tears, hormonal fluctuations, recovery from cesarean sections, constipation, and decreased physical activity following childbirth. The methods for managing pain during childbirth include the use of mild analgesics, regular evaluations after delivery, uterine massage following childbirth, opioid pain relief, breathing exercises, epidural anesthesia, and non-medical approaches such as relaxation techniques and music. Finally, the factors affecting postpartum mothers' use of pain management include financial limitations, insufficient hospital services, lengthy wait times at clinics, unhelpful attitudes from midwives, and a lack of adequate staff and resources to support postpartum care. The study determined that postpartum mothers should receive health intervention programs and ongoing care. It was suggested that ongoing training for healthcare providers in pain management strategies related to childbirth is essential to enhance mothers' utilization of these measures.