Therapeutic Rest as an Intervention in Early Labor: A Literature Review

ImportanceThe latent phase of labor poses a challenge for pregnant patients due to the limited options available for pain relief and management. Therapeutic rest, an intervention involving medication administration during this phase, has shown promise in addressing prelabor discomfort and anxiety.ObjectiveTo emphasize the significance of therapeutic rest during early labor, describe methods of administering this intervention, review data on efficacy and maternal/fetal outcomes, and determine appropriate criteria and timing of utilization.Evidence AcquisitionArticles were obtained from a thorough PubMed literature search; relevant articles were reviewed.ResultsStudies have shown that delaying admission to active labor benefits maternal and fetal outcomes. Pregnant patients admitted in the latent phase are at greater risk for obstetric interventions and have heightened emotional challenges. However, administering therapeutic rest during this phase has shown promising outcomes without significantly increasing the risks of adverse events. Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic rest on subsequent admission rates for patients in active labor.ConclusionsTherapeutic rest offers a favorable approach to managing pain and discomfort in early labor. Although there are criteria and contraindications, the interventions have shown effectiveness without substantial adverse effects, providing a potential outpatient management strategy for the latent phase of labor.RelevanceThis review offers insight into potential interventions and outcomes for managing the latent stage of labor in pregnant patients.Target AudienceObstetricians and gynecologists, family physiciansLearning ObjectivesAfter reading this article, the provider will be better able to explain the concept and significance of therapeutic rest in the context of early labor; identify target populations eligible for receiving therapeutic rest during the latent phase of labor; and describe the different pharmacologic regimens and interventions used for analgesia and rest for patients during early labor.