The Effects of Evidence-based Management of Labor and Normal Delivery on the Satisfaction and Childbirth Experience among Primiparous Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), implementing evidence-based care is vital for improving maternal and neonatal healthcare and outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an evidence-based labor and normal delivery management plan on childbirth satisfaction and experience among primiparous women. Materials and Methods: A single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2023 at Sina Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, involving 256 primiparous women with term, singleton, and low-risk pregnancies. Participants were selected using non-probability sampling and randomly assigned to either the intervention or control groups (128 in each) through block randomization. The intervention included the use of the WHO Labor Care Guide, consideration of maternal preferences such as freedom of movement and positioning, nutritional choices, and the preservation of maternal dignity. Trained healthcare providers implemented the evidence-based labor and delivery management program for the intervention group. Maternal satisfaction was measured using the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale, and the childbirth experience was evaluated using the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using an independent t-test, Chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact test. Results: The mean score for maternal satisfaction was higher in the intervention group compared to the control group (t 245.93 = 6.63, p < 0.001). In addition, a statistically significant difference was observed in the average birth experience scores between the intervention and control groups (t 254 = 8.57, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Evidence-based labor and normal delivery management enhances maternal satisfaction and fosters a more positive natural childbirth experience.