<![CDATA[Background: Duration of labor is a key determinant of childbirth outcomes and may influence the mother’s physiological and psychological state. Prolonged labor is often associated with increased maternal fatigue and emotional stress, which can delay the establishment of early maternal-infant bonding during the taking-hold period. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach. A total of 80 postpartum women who delivered vaginally at hospitals and maternity clinics were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using an observation sheet for labor duration and the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale (MPAS). Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s correlation test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between labor duration and maternal-infant bonding scores (r = -0.432; p = 0.002). Mothers who experienced labor longer than 12 hours demonstrated lower emotional closeness with their infants compared to those with shorter labor (<8 hours). Conclusion: Prolonged labor tends to hinder the development of early maternal-infant bonding. Emotional support and midwifery assistance during the labor process are essential to enhance bonding and psychological well-being in the postpartum period.]]>
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