Midwives’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceived Barriers to Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Labour Pain Management: A Cross-Sectional Study in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Labour pain is a major concern in intrapartum care. Complementary and alternative medicine offers non pharmacological options that may improve maternal comfort and childbirth experience. Midwives play a key role in whether these methods are discussed, recommended, or used in clinical settings. This study assessed midwives’ perspectives on complementary and alternative medicine in labour pain management at a tertiary hospital in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among registered midwives involved in maternal care at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. A total of 132 questionnaires were distributed, and 130 valid responses were analysed, giving a response rate of 98.5 percent. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample size. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages and means

Results: Most respondents were female, 112 of 130, and 54 of 130 worked in the labour or delivery ward. Only 39 respondents had received formal training on complementary and alternative medicine, while 52 had used or recommended it. Overall, 109 respondents showed good knowledge, 92 had positive attitudes, and 96 identified practice related factors as influential. Lack of formal training, insufficient institutional support, limited resources, workload, time constraints, and fear of legal or professional consequences were key barriers.

Conclusion: Midwives demonstrated good knowledge and generally positive attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine in labour pain management, but implementation was limited by training and institutional gaps. Structured education, clear hospital policies, and resource support are needed to promote safe and evidence informed integration into maternity care.