Postpartum Effects of Mirror Therapy During Labor

Today, childbirth is considered one of the most physically and psychologically intense experiences in a woman's life. Labor is a critical period during which fear, anxiety, and stress related to childbirth may increase, potentially affecting both the course of labor and postpartum emotional well-being. Supportive approaches implemented during this period may contribute to a more positive perception of the childbirth experience and enhance postpartum well-being. Mirror therapy is a non-pharmacological approach that enables individuals to visually perceive their own bodies and the ongoing process, thereby strengthening self-perception and promoting positive body awareness. The use of mirror therapy during labor may increase women's active participation in the childbirth process and enhance their sense of control. It may also support emotional well-being and reduce negative emotional states during the postpartum period. Accordingly, this study aims to evaluate the effects of mirror therapy administered during labor on postpartum pain, mood, and emotional well-being. The findings are expected to contribute to strengthening midwifery support during childbirth, integrating non-pharmacological approaches into clinical practice, promoting their wider use, and protecting women's psychological well-being. Thus, the study is expected to provide scientific evidence that may inform midwifery education and practice as well as postpartum care policies.

Inclusion Criteria: * Women aged 18 years or older, * Able to read and write in Turkish, * Admitted for vaginal delivery, * Willing to participate voluntarily in the study, * Providing written informed consent by signing the "Informed Voluntary Consent Form." Exclusion Criteria: * Having difficulty communicating, * Having a high-risk pregnancy (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), * Experiencing complications during labor or delivery (e.g., emergency cesarean section, fetal distress).