Mobile Applications for Labor Pain Management: Scoping Review of Design, Features, and Clinical Impact

Abstract

Labor pain influences birth experience and analgesic needs; mobile applications may strengthen education and coping, including yoga-based modules (breathing, relaxation, movement/positioning), yet evidence remains scattered. This study aims to map app designs, core features—particularly yoga components— behavior-change techniques, and clinical impact of mobile applications for labor pain management. Methods: Scoping review guided by JBI and PRISMA-ScR with searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Embase (2015–2025). Inclusion: RCTs, quasi-experiments, pre–post, and feasibility/usability studies involving pregnant or intrapartum women that evaluate apps targeting pain reduction or coping; studies featuring yoga (e.g., pranayama, guided relaxation, safe asana/positioning) will be identified as a subgroup. Data items include design approach, features (breathing coach, relaxation audio, contraction timer, guidance on positioning/heat, yoga modules), behavior-change techniques, and outcomes (VAS/NRS pain, anxiety, analgesic use, labor duration, satisfaction). This abstract presents a protocol; findings will map design patterns and a minimum viable feature set (including yoga) and synthesize effects on clinical outcomes, with implementation issues in low-resource settings. The review is expected to inform a practical design brief and implementation considerations for a safe, acceptable, and potentially effective app-based complementary model to reduce labor pain.