Perineal Massage and Warm Compresses - RCT for Reduce Perineal Trauma During Labor

Perineal Massage and Warm Compresses During Second Stage of Labor - Randomised Controlled Trial for Reduce Perineal Trauma

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of a combined perineal massage and warm compresses intervention on the perineum integrity during second stage of labor.

A single-centre, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Eligibility and informed consent to participate were checked once the woman was in established labor. Eligible participants were randomized at the second stage of labor. The trial intervention took place during the second stage of the spontaneous vaginal birth. Participants were randomized to one of the two groups, perineal massage and warm compresses on second stage of labor or control group (hands-on).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women with 18 years or older
• Between 37 and 41 weeks of pregnancy
• Expected spontaneous vaginal birth
• Fetus in the cephalic presentation
• Able to provide informed written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Multiple pregnancy
• Meconial amniotic fluid
• Fetal distress
• Suspicion of fetal growth restriction
• Gestational hypertensive disorders