The Effect of Virtual Reality-Based Visual Relaxation Application on Nausea and Vomiting Severity, Sleep Quality, and Pregnancy Comfort During Pregnancy: A Clinically Monitored Randomized Controlled Study

Pregnancy is a period marked by significant physiological changes in a woman's body. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) are common experiences during this time, particularly in the first trimester, affecting a large proportion of pregnant women and often impairing quality of life. Symptoms typically emerge between the 4th and 7th weeks of gestation and usually subside by the 12th-14th weeks, although they may persist into later stages in some cases. While mild NVP is generally self-limiting, moderate to severe forms can result in fluid and electrolyte imbalances, malnutrition, decreased work capacity, and, in severe cases, hospitalization. Hyperemesis gravidarum, the most severe form of NVP, is relatively rare but can lead to significant maternal morbidity.

The impact of NVP extends beyond physical discomfort. It can increase stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, leading to considerable psychosocial distress. Limitations in daily activities, disruption of nutritional intake and sleep patterns, and reduced functional capacity further compromise overall pregnancy comfort.

Although pharmacological interventions such as vitamin B6, doxylamine, antihistamines, metoclopramide, and ondansetron are commonly used to manage NVP, some pregnant women may decline these treatments due to concerns regarding teratogenicity, potential effects on fetal development, or personal preferences. Consequently, there is a growing need for safe, non-pharmacological interventions that can effectively alleviate NVP symptoms.

Pregnancy comfort encompasses both physical and psychological dimensions of well-being. Physical comfort includes relief from pain, fatigue, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort, whereas psychological comfort refers to reductions in anxiety, depressive symptoms, and pregnancy-related fears. Disturbances in either domain can significantly affect overall quality of life during pregnancy.

In recent years, digital health technologies have emerged as promising tools for supporting maternal health, particularly in out-of-hospital settings. Virtual Reality (VR) is one such technology that immerses users in a simulated sensory environment, providing distraction from symptoms and promoting relaxation. VR has been successfully applied in various clinical contexts, including pain management, anxiety reduction, labor relaxation, and control of nausea in chemotherapy patients. By redirecting attention away from discomfort, VR facilitates both psychological and physiological relaxation.