Abstract:
There is a general notion among Ghanaian women that the labour is a painful process that must be
endured. Regardless of this notion, labour pain experience overwhelms most women. The aim of this
study was to inquire into women’s perceptions and experience of labour pain and how women cope with
pain. Using the narrative inquiry methodology, five low risk pregnant Ghanaian women; two nulliparous
and three multiparas were purposefully selected. Tape-recorded conversations, writing of field notes and
journals were used as the main source of data collection before delivery and within one week after delivery.
The women’s perception of pain before and after delivery was used to construct narrative accounts
from which the findings of the study were generated. To ensure credibility of each narrative account, the
interim narrative accounts constructed by the researcher were sent to the women to read and respond to.
The findings revealed that before the labour experience, women perceived labour as a painful experience
expected to be endured. Antenatal education on labour pain management was inadequate. Additionally
use of pain relief methods was lacking although women expressed need for pain relief. Furthermore the
findings revealed inadequate physical and emotional support for women in labour to help cope with
labour pain. In conclusion the researcher recommends that midwives in consultation with clients adopt
a more active method of assessing labour pain. Also antenatal education on pain relief options must be
provided. A more conscious effort to provide support for women in labour should be promoted.
