Russian Maternity Wards Test VR Headsets for Drug-Free Childbirth Pain Relief

Maternity wards in Russia have introduced virtual reality headsets as a drug-free pain relief option during childbirth. The technology aims to help women manage labour pain without medication. It is now available at the Semashko Maternity Hospital in Tomsk. The VR headsets transport women to peaceful virtual environments. These include seascapes, forests, or mountain landscapes. The visual experience is often combined with audio, such as guided meditations or breathing exercises.

The method works by diverting the brain’s attention from pain and anxiety to a different sensory input. This makes it especially useful for women who cannot receive epidural anaesthesia for medical reasons.

However, some users report discomfort from the weight of the headset. It can press on the face and nose bridge, particularly during prolonged contractions. The Semashko Maternity Hospital has already equipped itself with the necessary VR equipment. The approach offers an alternative for pain management in labour. It remains an optional tool for women seeking non-pharmacological relief during childbirth.