| Methods |
Single‐blind, randomised controlled trial of massage versus no treatment. Randomisation was alternate. |
| Participants |
83 women were recruited from a regional hospital in Taiwan between 1999‐2000. Women were between 37 and 42 weeks' pregnant, with a normal pregnancy, the partner was expected to be present during labour and cervical dilatation was no more than 4 cm. |
| Interventions |
The primary researcher gave the massage during uterine contractions and taught the method to the woman's partner. Women received directional firm rhythmic massage lasting 30 minutes and comprised of effleurage, sacral pressure and shoulder and back kneading. Women were encouraged to selected their preferred technique. The 30‐minute massage was repeated in phase 2 and in the transitional phase 3. The control group received standard nursing care and 30 minutes of the researchers attendance and casual conversation. |
| Outcomes |
Behavioural intensity scale of pain measured by the nurse. VAS for anxiety. Subjective assessment of satisfaction with the childbirth experience. |
| Notes |
A power analysis was reported. Twenty‐three women (27%) were lost to follow up. An intention‐to‐treat analysis was performed. |
| Risk of bias |
| Bias |
Authors' judgement |
Support for judgement |
| Allocation concealment? |
Unclear risk |
B ‐ Unclear |
