Table 2 Two-factor solution from explorative factor analysis (EFA) with varimax rotation in 429 (sample I) women who completed the 13-item LPRAQ-p

Eigenvalue

3.4

1.8

Percentage of variance explained

30.7

16.7

1. Pain relief makes me feel like I am not fully in control during labor

.66

2. Pain is part of the labor process

3. Pain relief during labor means that medication is administered, which can affect my baby

.45

4. The fact that receiving medication for pain relief means that I have to give birth in the hospital, keeps me from asking for it

0.45

− 0.33

5. I think too little attention is paid to the possible pros and cons of pain relief

6. Pain during labor will strengthen the bond with my baby

0.50

− 0.37

7. Because my pregnancy has already had a big impact on my body, I think it is normal to ask for pain relief

.70

0.27

8. I also ask for pain relief because of my partner

.72

9. I am convinced that if I get pain relief, I will feel much more self-confident during labor

.72

0.44

10. Pain relief will help me perform much better during labor

.72

0.34

11. My partner plays an important role in the decision to ask for pain relief during labor

.65

12. Pain during labor is outdated

.67

0.33

13. My (social) environment (friends, relatives) plays an important role in the decision to ask for pain relief during labor

.65