Targeted Deep Pelvic Floor Muscle Physiotherapy Versus Antenatal Perineal Massage in Nulliparous Women

This prospective randomized clinical trial evaluates whether targeted deep pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy is more effective than standard antenatal perineal massage in reducing perineal trauma among nulliparous women. The study compares the effects of these two antenatal interventions on the incidence of perineal trauma requiring suturing, including perineal tears and episiotomy, as well as other obstetric outcomes such as cesarean delivery, operative vaginal delivery, and the duration of the second stage of labor.

The study aims to determine whether targeted deep pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy reduces the incidence and severity of perineal trauma and improves obstetric outcomes compared with standard antenatal perineal massage.

Participants are randomly assigned to receive either targeted deep pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy or standard antenatal perineal massage beginning at 36 weeks of gestation. Obstetric outcomes are assessed at the time of delivery, and postpartum maternal outcomes are evaluated using standardized follow-up questionnaires at 3 and 6 months after childbirth.