Exploring how language affects pain perception during epidural anesthesia
Will Negative Phrasing Create a Nocebo Effect During Epidural Placement When Compared to Positive Phrasing? A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests if the way anesthesiologists talk about epidurals can change how much pain first-time labor patients feel during the procedure.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT04497220 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether the wording used by anesthesiologists when describing the epidural procedure can influence patients' pain perception. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a negative or positive description of the procedure before receiving their epidural. The aim is to determine if a more positive framing can lead to lower pain scores during the administration of the epidural. The study focuses on first-time epidural patients during labor.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are pregnant individuals requesting an epidural for the first time.
Not a fit: Patients who have had a previous epidural or have certain medical histories, such as chronic pain or opioid abuse, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to reduced pain and anxiety for patients undergoing epidural anesthesia.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using language to influence pain perception is less common, similar studies have shown that patient communication can impact pain experiences.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * pregnancy * requesting an epidural for the first time Exclusion Criteria: * previous epidural (either for labor or for surgery) * BMI greater than 40 kg/m\^2 * previous lumbar spine surgery * inability to speak English * a history of chronic pain or are on chronic opioids * a history of opioid drug abuse
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aaron Berg, MD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Aaron Berg, MD
- Email: bergx831@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-624-9990
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.