A recent investigation by Dartmouth researchers has shed light on the emotional toll faced by pregnant individuals who had to navigate childbirth without their preferred support people.
The study found that those who were denied the presence of chosen companions reported stress levels comparable to those experienced during a Cesarean section.
These insights emerged from research published in the journal Evolution, Medicine, & Public Health.
Importance of Emotional Support
Zaneta Thayer, an associate professor of anthropology at Dartmouth, pointed out that seeking comfort from trusted individuals during labor is a deeply rooted human practice.
When this support is absent, the resulting stress can be substantial, emphasizing the need for emotional assistance during such critical times.
Prior studies have consistently highlighted the benefits of having emotional support during labor.
Those who received such support often enjoyed shorter delivery times, reduced reliance on pain relief medications, and lower rates of Cesarean deliveries.
Thayer indicated that these positive outcomes are likely linked to lower levels of stress hormones and a boost in oxytocin, a hormone essential for both childbirth and the bonding process between parents and their newborns.
Additionally, continuous emotional support has been associated with increased maternal satisfaction and a more positive birth experience overall.
Research also suggests that this support may contribute to better pain relief for preemies, as the calming effects of oxytocin can help regulate the newborn’s response to discomfort.
As a result, both mother and baby benefit from a more relaxed and supportive birthing environment.
Survey Insights and Impact of COVID-19
To gather their data, the research team analyzed responses from an online survey conducted in 2020, part of the COVID-19 and Reproductive Effects Study.
In total, 1,100 expectant individuals shared how the pandemic impacted their health and birthing experiences.
Notably, none of the respondents expressed a wish to give birth without support.
Yet, due to modified hospital policies during the pandemic, many faced the reality of laboring without their chosen companions.
Almost 30% of participants reported that at least one of the support people they wanted could not be present.
Alarmingly, 93% identified hospital restrictions as the primary reason for this absence.
Respondents expressed a yearning for the presence of partners, doulas, or mothers.
Additionally, the survey revealed that 14% of respondents felt that their healthcare providers seemed distracted or unavailable, which contributed to heightened stress levels during childbirth.
Interestingly, those with higher educational backgrounds reported more intense feelings of stress related to childbirth.
Need for Inclusive Support
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the majority of the survey participants identified as white, which means the results may not fully represent the diversity of the wider population.
The researchers emphasized that access to support could be especially vital for those who have previously experienced discrimination or inadequate treatment in healthcare settings.
Thayer emphasized the critical nature of creating an environment where individuals feel secure and supported during labor to improve overall health outcomes for both mothers and their children.
She argued that ensuring access to emotional support during childbirth should be an essential consideration, even in the face of public health crises or other emergency situations.
Source: ScienceDaily