Effect of Music on Pain and Duration of Labor

Introduction: This randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted to evaluate whether use of music could reduce the pain and duration of labor. Methods: Between 2010 and 2011, a total of 99 women at 38 weeks or greater with spontaneous labor were randomized to fast music, slow music, and control groups. Labor pain was assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS) at beginning of the active phase and then every 1 hour. Duration of active phase and second stage of labor was recorded. Analysis of all proportions was carried out using t- test, Mann-whitney test, and Pearson’s chi-square test when appropriate. Results: Patients in the fast music group revealed lower VAS scores at all time after music therapy, except fourth hour, and in the first and fifth hours, this differences were significant. In slow music group VAS scores, only in fifth hour were significantly lower than those of control group. Duration of labor was significantly lower in the fast music group than control. Conclusion: Listening fast music in the active phase of labor decreased pain and duration of labor.