Illuminating birth: exploring the impact of birthing environment lighting on labor

TL;DR

This study explores how lighting in the birthing environment affects birth outcomes, perineal health, and maternal experience.

Contribution

The study reveals that dim lighting correlates with higher rates of vaginal birth and improved maternal immersion.

Findings

Dim lighting correlates with higher rates of vaginal births (86.36% vs. 68.3%).

Dim lighting is associated with fewer perineal tears (p = 0.0033).

Dim lighting correlates with heightened maternal immersion during birth (p = 0.003).

Abstract

Numerous factors influence the birth experience and outcomes, both positively and negatively. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the birth room environment and light condition during birth and their effects on birth method, perineal health, and birth experience.

A longitudinal cohort study was conducted in a medical center in Northern Israel. Participants completed self-report questionnaires during the third trimester of their pregnancy and again 72 h post-birth (T1 and T2, n = 126). Initially sociodemographic data and reproductive history were collected, as well as preparation and plans for birth. Data about birth outcomes and birth complications were gathered from electronic records. Perception of the birth environment and the state of consciousness during birth (T2) was assessed using a valid questionnaire that includes 36 statements indicating the state of flow.

Our study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between birth type and birth room light conditions. Vaginal births predominantly occured under dim light (86.36% vs. 68.3%). Moreover, a negative correlation was observed between perineal tears and dim light levels (p = 0.0033). Regarding maternal mental state during birth, dimmer lighting correlated with heightened experiences of Unambiguous feedback flow state (p = 0.003).

Dim light was correlated with higher rates of vaginal birth, fewer perineal tears, and enhanced maternal immersion during birth. Although promising, these associations are correlational and require further exploration. Our findings suggest that the birth room is not merely a physical setting but a dynamic environment where sensory cues and psychological states interact.

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