ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a lower dose
subcutaneous sterile water injection technique versus subcutaneous saline injection, on the
relief of low-back pain for women during childbirth, and to explore the lasting effects of pain
relief after administration (followed at 15, 30, 45, 90 and 120 minutes).
METHODS A prospective randomized controlled single-blinded study was conducted, with
trial registration (NCT02813330). Women received one-time injections (sterile water or
saline) and the effectiveness was observed at 15, 30, 45, 90 and 120 minutes after the
intervention.
RESULTS The intervention group had statistically significant pain reduction. Assessment
of subsequent pain, followed at 30, 45, 90 and 120 minutes, reflected an increasing
change with a statistically significant difference. The intervention group had more burning
sensations than the control group with a statistically significant difference.
CONCLUSIONS The modified technique of double injections of subcutaneous ‘water/
saline’ resulted in significant relief of low-back pain during childbirth.