Intradermal sterile water injections for the relief of low back pain in labour—A systematic review of the literature

SummaryObjectiveTo search literature published on the administration of intradermal sterile water injections to women in labour who experience severe low back pain, and to critically evaluate the evidence for therapeutic merit.MethodA systematic review of six randomised controlled trials from countries including Canada, Denmark, Iran, Sweden and Thailand was conducted.ResultsStatistically significant findings (p < 0.0001) of relief of low back pain in labour lasting from 10 min to 2 h post-administration.ConclusionIntradermal injections of sterile water possess powerful analgesic benefits for women experiencing low back pain in labour and their use in this therapeutic setting is justifiable.