Skip to main content
MedicalResearchScience

Easing the Pain of Childbirth with Virtual Reality

Pregnant patients that are actively in labor are experimenting with Virtual Reality to ease the physical and emotional pain of childbirth.

According to a BBC article

University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff is carrying out a trial and it could be rolled out across Wales, if successful.

[the virtual reality software was developed by Rescape who’s cofounder, Glenn Hapgood, had this to say about Virtual Reality] “It’s moved slowly out of the gaming arena and now into therapies..” A hospital stay is never an enjoyable one. So even if you look at it from a therapy point of view, just taking people away from the uncomfortable environment they’re in – it’s a very easy solution to have.” – “Women in labour given virtual reality to ease pain of childbirth”, written by Nick Hartley, August 9, 2019, BBC
This may sound a bit ‘unatural’ at first, especially for those dedicated to organic birthing practices, but this is another choice that hospitals can make available for patients – and not only pregnant ones. Imagine even a 5 minute escape from the hospital, and the pain, which could greatly improve patient care. Ongoing studies continue to support these experiences, even micro-experiences, which are shown to provide real respite from pain.
Close Menu