<![CDATA[Labor pain is a complex physiological experience influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Non-pharmacological approaches such as labor dance and music therapy are increasingly recommended as complementary strategies to reduce pain perception without pharmacological side effects. The purpose of this scoping review is to map the latest scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of labor dance and music therapy in reducing labor pain intensity based on publications from 2020–2025. A literature search was conducted through the PubMed database using keywords related to "labor pain," "music therapy," and "labor dance." Article selection followed the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Included studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses reporting labor pain intensity outcomes. A total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. Many studies have shown that music therapy significantly reduces pain scores based on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) or Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), especially during the active phase of labor. Labor dance interventions, either alone or combined with music, also show statistically significant pain reductions compared to control groups. The mechanisms of action of this intervention include cognitive distraction, relaxation, autonomic nervous system modulation, and increased endorphin release. Although heterogeneity in design and musical genres remains a challenge, these findings reinforce the potential of labor dance and music therapy as effective non-pharmacological interventions in labor pain management. Further research with standardized RCT designs is needed to strengthen clinical recommendations.]]>
Copyrights © 2025
