Effectiveness of Virtual Reality for Pain Relief in Procedures Related to Obstetrics and Gynaecology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Abstract

Immersive virtual reality (VR) technology offers a non-invasive, non-pharmacological approach to reduce pain perception in patients undergoing diagnostic or interventional procedures. To systematically evaluate the efficacy of immersive VR technology in reducing pain perception during obstetric and gynaecological procedures. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases from inception to January 2025. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating VR interventions in women undergoing obstetric or gynaecological procedures. We performed meta-analyses using random-effects models and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials. 49 RCTs (5355 participants) were included. Due to clinical heterogeneity, data were analysed separately. VR resulted in a larger, consistent reduction in pain scores compared with standard care in labour (11 studies; SMD -0.93, 95% CI -1.25 to -0.60) compared to minor procedures (29 studies; SMD -0.64, 95% CI -0.97 to -0.32). VR also significantly reduced anxiety scores in both labour (8 studies; SMD -1.13, 95% CI -1.80 to -0.45) and minor procedures (17 studies; SMD -0.74, 95% CI -1.18 to -0.29). Our analysis was limited by high levels of heterogeneity and variability in procedural protocols. Immersive VR technology appears effective for reducing pain and anxiety during obstetric and gynaecological procedures, particularly during childbirth, despite substantial statistical heterogeneity. Further research is needed to optimise implementation strategies and establish clinical practice guidelines.