BACKGROUND:
Childbirth is a significant life event that can be associated with pain among women worldwide, and managing it effectively is critical for maternal satisfaction and well-being. Although pharmacological interventions are often used, non-pharmacological methods such as a warm compress and a warm bath are gaining attention because they are cost effective and efficient. These methods have also been shown to provide comfort to laboring women.

OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to investigate the effects of a warm compresses on among women in labor at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.

METHODS:
A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 240 women in active labor being monitored using the WHO labour guide with a cervical dilatation of ≥5cms. The trial was conducted between September 2024 to February 2025 at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (receiving a warm compresses) or control group (receiving standard care). The outcomes of interest were pain intensity, anxiety levels, and maternal satisfaction which were assessed using the visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data on pain intensity, duration of labor were collected through direct observation and medical records

RESULTS:
During the period 240 mothers were randomized; 120 controls and 120 were in the intervention group. Seven mothers dropped off due to discomfort and 233 successfully completed the trial. The results showed that women in the intervention group experienced significant reductions in pain intensity and anxiety levels compared to the control group. Additionally, maternal satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention group

CONCLUSIONS:
This study provides evidence that using a warm compress is an effective non-pharmacological method for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and promoting maternal satisfaction during labor.

KEY MESSAGE:
Healthcare providers should incorporate warm birth compresses into their standard care protocols for women in labor. Further research could explore the long-term effects of warm compresses on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Poster session 1 (Group A)