Spoken Animation for Labour Epidural
This research wants to find out if a new animated film can better help first-time mothers understand epidural pain relief during labour. Women who are having their labour started artificially (induced) will take part. Some women will watch the animation before reading written information, while others will only receive the written information. The main goal is to see if the animation helps women feel more confident about their decision regarding epidural pain relief and makes them less worried. All participants will answer questions about their feelings and understanding of epidurals before and after getting the information. A smaller group will also be interviewed to share their thoughts on the animation. This study hopes to make understanding important choices about pain relief in labour clearer and less stressful for new mothers.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into new ways to help women who are having their first baby understand epidural pain relief during labour. An epidural is a type of pain relief that numbs your belly and legs, helping you cope with contractions. Most hospitals give out written information about epidurals, but researchers wonder if a short, animated film could make things even clearer.
The main aim of this study is to see if watching this animated film, along with the written information, helps first-time mothers feel less worried and more confident about their decision concerning epidural pain relief, compared to just reading the written information alone. The researchers will also check if the animation helps reduce any anxiety and makes women feel more satisfied with the information they've received.
This is important because understanding your pain relief options fully can make a big difference to your experience of childbirth. The study hopes to find the best way to give you reliable and easy-to-understand information, so you can make choices that are right for you with confidence.
Key takeaways
- Focuses on how to best explain epidural pain relief.
- Compares an animated film with written information.
- Aims to reduce worry and help make decisions easier.
- Involves first-time mums having induced labour.
- Participation involves questionnaires and potentially an interview.
- No physical risks; you can withdraw anytime.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women who are expecting their first baby and are coming to the hospital to have their labour started artificially (induced). You'll need to be at least 18 years old to take part.
You won't be able to join the study if you've had an epidural before for any reason, or if your doctor has told you that an epidural isn't safe for you. Also, if you have any serious health problems, or if you can't speak English or one of the seven translated languages provided for the study, you won't be able to participate. Taking part is completely your choice, so if you'd rather not, that's absolutely fine.
- Are you expecting your first baby?
- Is your labour going to be started artificially (induced)?
- Are you at least 18 years old?
- Have you never had an epidural before?
- Are you able to speak English or one of the languages translated for the study?
- Do you have any serious health problems that might prevent an epidural?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be involved while you're in the antenatal ward, before you move to the labour ward. First, you'll fill out a questionnaire asking about your thoughts and feelings regarding epidurals for labour pain. Then, you'll receive information about epidurals. Depending on which group you're in, you'll either receive written information only, or you'll watch a short animated film first, followed by the same written information. After this, you'll complete another questionnaire.
A small number of participants will also be asked to have a short interview afterwards to share their thoughts about the animated film, if they watched it. The whole process for the study will take place during your time on the antenatal ward and no follow-up visits are required for the study itself. There are no medications involved in this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- West Middlesex Hospital, Chelsea & Westminster NHS TrustLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is an epidural?
An epidural is a type of pain relief used during labour that helps numb the lower part of your body. It's given through a small tube in your back.
Do I have to watch the animation if I join?
Some participants will watch the animation and some won't. This helps researchers compare the two ways of giving information fairly.
How long will it take to participate?
Your involvement in the study will take place on the ward and includes watching a film (if applicable) and filling in two questionnaires. This should not take long and will happen before you go to the labour ward.
Will taking part affect my care?
No, whether you take part or not will not affect the medical care you receive for your labour and delivery. Your care will remain the same.
What if I change my mind about participating?
You are free to withdraw from the study at any point, without needing to give a reason, and it will not affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Charles Prior, FRCA
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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