Intrapartum Study of Sterile and Clean Gloves

A Comparison of Sterile and Non-sterile Gloves for the Incidence of Chorioamnionitis During Labor: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of sterile or clean gloves during labor exams affects the rate of chorioamnionitis. Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the membranes around the baby.

The importance of this study is that intrapartum vaginal exams (while patients are laboring) are performed routinely in modern obstetrical practice, and there is no randomized trial available assessing the relationship between the type of glove used and the rate of chorioamnionitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Spontaneous or induced labor
• Rupture of membranes < 12 hours
• Nulliparous or multiparous
• Gestational age greater than or equal to 34 weeks
• Age greater than or equal to 18

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindications to labor
• Multiple gestations
• Rupture of Membranes greater than 12 hours
• Gestational age less than 34 weeks
• Non-English speaking patients