Searching for the Perfect Oil to Protect the Perineum: A Randomized-Controlled, Double-Blind Trial

A Randomised Double Blind Clinical Trial to Verify if Perineal Massage Increases the Chances of Delivering With an Intact Perineum Comparing the Two Oils. As Secondary Objective, we Will Evaluate the Effects of Perineal Massage on Specific Tear Location, the Severity of Perineal Tears and the Amount of Suture Material Required for Repair

In this study we intend to randomly assign each parturient one of two commonly used oils to be applied during the second stage of labor, one of them containing vitamin E. We will verify if perineal massage increases the chances of delivering with an intact perineum comparing the two oils. As secondary objectives, we will evaluate the effects of perineal massage on specific tear location, the severity of perineal tears and the amount of suture material required for repair.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Singleton pregnancy
• Term pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-vertex pregnancies
• Multiple pregnancies
• Placenta previa
• Placental abruption
• Intra-uterine infection
• Non progressive labor first stage
• Former operations or surgical procedures in the vagina
• Perineal massage during the weeks before labor