Influence of Doula on the Primiparous Parturient's Anxiety in the Delivery Ward

Women who experience anxiety during labor are more vulnerable to physical and mental illnesses. Emotional support by a knowledgeable individual can improve physical and even mental conditions. This study aimed to determine the effect of presence of a Doula in delivery unit on parturient women’s anxiety. Methods & Materials: This is an experimental study using a randomized interrupted time series with a control group. Using convenience sampling، 64 parturient women with research inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to the control or intervention groups. The parturient women in the intervention group benefited from presence of a Doula and her support. The control group received the usual care without presence of the Doula. Data were collected using the Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory and a checklist. The results were analyzed using parametric and non-parametric statistical tests in the Stata-11. The age، education، family income، location of residency، the trait and state anxiety did not have any differences between the two groups at the baseline. After the intervention، the state anxiety was reduced significantly in the intervention group compared with the control group at the time of leaving the labor room، delivery room and recovery room (P<0. 001). According to the present research findings، Doula can significantly reduce the anxiety level and its complications among parturient women during childbearing.