KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF SAUDI WOMEN TOWARD PAINLESS LABOR, AND MISCONCEPTION ABOUT THE RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of Saudi women toward painless labor, and misconception about the risks and complications . Method: A cross-sectional study included 386 Saudi woman, was selected randomly. the study conducted using a questionnaire consisted of three sections; the first section was regarding demographic data, while the second section was to assess the women knowledge toward painless labor, and the third section was to assess the women attitude toward painless labor. Results: 36.7 % availed epidural analgesia in their previous deliveries. 95% heard about the epidural analgesia to reduce the pain of labor. 50.1% have positive attitude towards epidural analgesia. 60.9% did not discuss available birth options with the doctor. 53.9% preferred natural childbirth as method of birth. 32.1% will never use any of the anesthetics in their next births. Conclusion: There was a good level of knowledge and positive attitude towards the epidural analgesia among Saudi women, but there was low prevalence of epidural analgesia using among Saudi women.