Could a VR headset replace painkillers during labor induction?

NCT ID NCT05155826

First seen Jun 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether using a virtual reality headset during placement of a cervical ripening balloon can reduce pain and anxiety for women undergoing labor induction. Sixty pregnant women will either receive standard care or standard care plus a VR experience. The goal is to see if distraction through VR lowers the maximum pain felt during the procedure.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Virtual reality headset (Deepsen® VRx)
What this could lead to
If effective, virtual reality could offer a drug-free way to manage pain and anxiety during labor induction procedures.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial with only 60 participants, so results may not apply widely. The effect may be limited to distraction and not reduce actual pain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

dystocia Labor Pain Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CHU de Saint-Etienne

    Saint-Etienne, 42055, France

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