Alba Ricchiand Isabella Neri Author

Research Article Subscription

The Use of Complementary Medicine in the Perinatal Period: A Quality Improvement Study in a Birth Center

Author(s):

Daniela Menichini*, Alice Pedrielli, Fabio Facchinetti, Martina Lorusso, Maria Teresa Molinazzi, Alba Ricchi and Isabella Neri

Abstract Background: The excessive medicalization negatively impacts the childbirth experience. In order to empower women and reduce medicalization, complementary medicine has been implemented in midwife-led units. Aim: To evaluate the quality of obstetric care, the compliance to complementary medicine and the impact of its use on pain relief, augmentation of labor and delivery outcomes. Methods: Prospective quality improvement study where an ad-hoc questionnaire was administered to singleton at term uncomplicated pregnant women admitted to a mid-wife-led unit to evaluate patient’s satisfaction after the use of complementary techniques such as acupressure, moxibustion, acupuncture and aromatherapy. Medical records were used to evaluate perinatal outcomes. Results: One-hundred wome... view more»

Abstract HTML PDF