The Effect of Rosary Use at Birth on Labor Pain, Anxiety, and Comfort: A Randomized Controlled Study

Purpose: This study was aimed to determine the effects of rosary use on labor pain, anxiety and comfort. Method: The study, conducted between April 30 and December 30, 2022, was designed as a randomized controlled trial. Power analysis was used in the sample calculation and the sample of the study consisted of a total of 152 pregnant women (76 pregnant women for each group). Pregnant women in the experimental group were given personalized rosaries/dhikrs prepared as intervention material, and it was ensured that they were applied in the active and transitional phase of labor. No intervention was applied to the control group other than routine labor care. Data were collected using the Pregnant Identification Form, Numerical Evaluation Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Childbirth Comfort Questionnaire. Results: When the total mean scores of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Childbirth Comfort Questionnaire were compared after the use of prayer rosary/dhikr by the pregnant women, it was determined that the difference between the groups was significant (within-group and between-groups) (p<0.05). The difference between the mean scores of the Numerical Evaluation Scale was determined to be statistically significant in the third and fourth measurements (p<0.05). Conclusion: It was determined that the use of prayer rosary/dhikr was effective in reducing both state anxiety and pain levels and increasing comfort levels in pregnant women.