The effectiveness of foot reflexology in reducing anxiety and duration of labor in primiparas: An open-label randomized controlled trial

Background and purpose: Reflexology alleviates anxiety and may shorten the duration of labor. We evaluated the effect of reflexology on anxiety level and duration of labor in primiparas with moderate-to-severe anxiety. Materials and methods: In this open-label randomized-controlled trial, primiparas with moderate-to-severe anxiety were randomized into one of two groups: addition of reflexology to usual care, or usual care only. The primary outcome was a change in the level of anxiety during reflexology treatment. Results: Ninety-nine women were assigned to reflexology treatment while ninety received usual care only. A larger alleviation of anxiety was observed immediately after reflexology treatment as compared to the control group during the 30 min following group assignment. Reflexology did not affect the length of delivery. Conclusion: Foot reflexology had a positive short-term anxiolytic effect during labor in primiparas with moderate-to-severe anxiety but did not affect the duration of labor.