Virtual Reality in Labor Pain Management: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Published on March 29, 2026

Pain Manag Nurs. 2026 Mar 26:S1524-9042(26)00090-1. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2026.02.005. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of using virtual reality as a non-pharmacological therapeutic method for pain reduction in women during labor.

METHODS: A randomized, controlled, single-center clinical trial was conducted in a healthcare unit in northern Portugal, from May 2023 to May 2024. A total of 61 pregnant women participated, with 32 in the intervention group and 29 in the control group.

RESULTS: The results indicated a significant reduction in pain intensity in the intervention group compared to the control group during the application of virtual reality. However, this pain reduction was not significantly sustained 30 minutes after the intervention ended.

CONCLUSION: Virtual reality proved to be an effective intervention for reducing pain during labor, with beneficial effects during its use. However, these effects were not sustained in the long term. The study highlights the potential of virtual reality as a non-pharmacological and safe approach to pain management in obstetric contexts, emphasizing the need for technological advancements in the development of tailored resources for this target population.

PMID:41896140 | DOI:10.1016/j.pmn.2026.02.005

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