Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms in midwives working in delivery rooms in Turkey

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among midwives working in delivery rooms in Turkey. The study design was cross-sectional and descriptive. Data were collected using the introductory information form, visual analog scale and Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaires. The survey was completed between May and December 2022 by 386 midwives. All of the midwives had experienced at least one MSD symptom within the previous 12 months, with 24.9% taking sick leave due to MSDs. According to the participants, the most strenuous activities for the musculoskeletal system were assisting with births and suturing (53.4%), assisting with breastfeeding (50.3%) and positioning the pregnant woman during midwifery care (48.4%). Those midwives mentioning the latter activity experienced all MSDs (<i>p</i> ≥ 0.05). There was a significant positive association between working hours, job satisfaction, job stress and MSD.