Relation of Self-Efficacy to Reported Pain and Pain Medication Usage During Labor

We studied the relationship of self-efficacy to reported labor pain and pain medication usage among 43 women. Self-efficacy ratings were judgments of confidence regarding successful completion of tasks involved in labor and delivery (e.g., doing breathing exercises) and in overcoming barriers (e.g., nonsupportive partner). Multiple regression analyses revealed that self-efficacy significantly contributed to predicting labor pain beyond other relevant variables (e.g., age, amount of menstrual pain), with barrier self-efficacy the strongest predictor. Results are discussed in the context of increasing women's confidence in overcoming barriers by incorporating relevant interventions in childbirth education.