The "push" for evidence: management of the second stage

Just go with your body? A conversation analytic study of the transition from first to second stage of labor in UK midwife-led care

BACKGROUND

The transition from first to second stage of labor is poorly understood. While the onset of second stage is defined by cervical measurement, dilation cannot be directly sensed or externally observed. Thus, uncertainty exists when women report pushing urges before dilation is confirmed. This study aimed to explore how sensations of pushing and uncertainty over progress are interactionally managed.

METHODS

We audio/video recorded the labors of 37 women in two midwife-led units in England. Our analysis focused on a subset of 28 recordings that featured discussion of transition from first to second stage of labor. The interactions between midwives, laboring women and their birth partners were transcribed and analyzed using conversation analysis.

RESULTS

We identified a 'pushing until proven otherwise' rule granting temporary, contingent authority to bodily urges to push while tracking progress over time. Specifically, midwives supported reported pushing sensations without insisting on examinations. Caution was occasionally expressed in distinguishing between irresistible and forced pushing. Across multiple contractions, midwives watched and waited for alignment of sensations with signs of descent. Where signs of progress were absent over time, examinations were treated as clinically indicated.

DISCUSSION

Thus, a complex interplay of women's sensations and midwifery expertise produced care. Compared to past research, our analysis demonstrates increased validation of embodied experience in contemporary midwife-led practice. However, uncertainty still requires navigation through collaborative work. We evidence how this navigation is accomplished in real-time interactions.

Significance of Physical Exercise in Pregnancy: Comparison of Short and Long Exercise Programs

BACKGROUND

Several musculoskeletal changes occur in pregnancy, particularly in the abdominal region. The aim of this study was to search and compare the effects of long (LEP) and short exercise programs (SEP) in terms of the satisfaction of the needs of pregnant women.

METHODS

This study consisted of 2 groups: LEP (n=16) and SEP (n=16). Muscle thickness measurements determined by ultrasound, the 6 minute walk test, Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and Short Form-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire were the study variables. Evaluations were done at the 16th (baseline), 24th, and 32nd gestational weeks. The LEP consisted of 20 and the SEP consisted of 9 exercises, which were applied for 16 weeks until the 32nd gestational week.

RESULTS

Emotional role limitation and pain scores of quality of life, 6 minute walk test, and occupational physical activity were found to be better in the LEP group at the 24th gestational week (p=0.043, p=0.049, p=0.049, p=0.026). At the 32nd gestational week, the 6 minute walk test and occupational physical activity were found to be higher in the LEP group (p=0.006, p=0.017). Additionally, rectus abdominis and bilateral diaphragm muscle thicknesses, "moderate intensity and sports physical activity" and "vitality and emotional well-being" were increased over time with the LEP (p+<+0.05 for all). On the other hand, unilateral diaphragm muscle thickness, sports physical activity level, and vitality were improved with the SEP (p+<+0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

The SEP and LEP both have beneficial effects in pregnant women. However, the LEP increases physical activity level, functional capacity, and quality of life more than the SEP during the later stages of pregnancy.

Physiological plateaus during normal labor and birth: A novel definition

BACKGROUND

Diagnoses of labor dystocia, and subsequent labor augmentation, make one of the biggest contributions to childbirth medicalization, which remains a key challenge in contemporary maternity care. However, labor dystocia is poorly defined, and the antithetical concept of physiological plateaus remains insufficiently explored.

AIM

To generate a definition of physiological plateaus as a basis for further research.

METHODS

This qualitative study applied grounded theory methods and comprised interviews with 20 midwives across Australia, conducted between September 2020 and February 2022. Data were coded in a three-phase approach, starting with inductive line-by-line coding, which generated themes and subthemes, and finally, through axial coding.

RESULTS

Physiological plateaus represent a temporary slowing of one or multiple labor processes and appear to be common during childbirth. They are reported throughout the entire continuum of labor, typically lasting between a few minutes to several hours. Their etiology/function appears to be a self-regulatory mechanism of the mother-infant dyad. Physiological plateaus typically self-resolve and are followed by a self-resumption of labor. Women with physiological plateaus during labor appear to experience positive birth outcomes.

DISCUSSION

Despite appearing to be common, physiological plateaus are insufficiently recognized in contemporary childbirth discourse. Consequently, there seems to be a significant risk of misinterpretation of physiological plateaus as labor dystocia. While findings are limited by the qualitative design and require validation through further quantitative research, the proposed novel definition provides an important starting point for further investigation.

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of physiological plateaus holds the potential for a de-medicalization of childbirth through preventing unjustified labor augmentation.

Comparison of Spontaneous Pushing and Directed Pushing During the Second Stage of Labor Among Chinese Women Without Epidural Analgesia: Protocol for a Noninferior Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Maternal pushing during the second stage of labor could influence labor progress and maternal-neonatal outcomes. Although the image of health care providers directing the laboring women to push during the second stage of labor could be commonly observed globally, this practice is not sufficiently researched and is questioned regarding its effectiveness and outcomes on the mother and baby. Meanwhile, a strategy referred to as "spontaneous pushing," which supports women to push by following their bodily urges, has been evaluated in several trials. However, in China, spontaneous pushing is not common practice. Notwithstanding the evaluation of spontaneous pushing, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to support either strategies of directed pushing or spontaneous pushing.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to test the feasibility of a future randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of spontaneous pushing and directed pushing during the second stage of labor for maternal and neonatal outcomes in China.

METHODS

A nonrandomized, single-group, noninferiority feasibility study will be conducted in a public hospital in Hebei Province, China. In total, 105 women meeting the selection criteria will be recruited to receive the intervention (spontaneous pushing), while 105 sets of medical notes from women who received routine care (directed pushing) will be identified and reviewed to compare outcomes for both cohorts. A mixed methods approach will be used to assess primary outcomes (feasibility and acceptability) and secondary outcomes (effectiveness).

RESULTS

Data collection took place between May and October 2023. A total of 110 women were invited to participate in the intervention of spontaneous pushing. Midwives' interviews were conducted and will be transcribed for analysis in March 2024. The data analysis is planned to be completed by May 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

This feasibility study will provide important information by conducting a full-scale clinical trial in the future as well as the potential facilitators and barriers of it. A future randomized controlled trial is likely to have considerable policy and funding impacts regarding pushing management during the second stage of labor and improvement in women's childbirth experience.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Register ChiCTR2300071178; https://tinyurl.com/mudtnbft.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/55701.

Regulated Expiratory Methods During Childbirth Process: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the impact of a regulated expiratory method (REM) on the childbirth process.

METHODS

This was a randomized trial. Study population included all first-time mothers with a spontaneous onset of labour, at an early stage, and a fetus in cephalic presentation with a normal weight for gestational age. The evaluated intervention was REM based on the use of a specific device. The primary outcome was the cesarean delivery rate. Secondary outcomes included first and second stages of labour times, rates of spontaneous and instrumental vaginal births, and pain scores. Subjective qualitative outcomes related to childbirth experience were evaluated via 2 interviews conducted with the parturient and the midwife responsible for her delivery. Intention-to-treat analysis was employed to compare the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The reduction in primary cesarean rates between the 2 groups was not significant (26.7% in control group vs. 18.3% in intervention group; P = 0.274). However, REM allowed for a significant reduction in second stage (P = 0.039) and pushing effort times (P = 0.003). According to midwives, REM had a significant positive impact on parturients' breathing (P < 0.0001) and pushing effort intensity (P = 0.041). It facilitated communication with the parturient (P = 0.002). Moreover, the evaluated method had a significant positive impact on patient's childbirth experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the reduction in immediate cesarean rates was not significant, REM has the potential to shorten labour duration, improve pain management, and ultimately improve maternal childbirth experience.

Respiratory physiology in pregnancy and assessment of pulmonary function

A progressive chest wall adaptation occurs during pregnancy driven by the hormones and the expanding uterus. The effect of the former is more prevalent in the first weeks of pregnancy, while the latter is more evident in the last trimester. The combination of the hormonal-induced joint loosening together with the progressively enlarging uterus produces changes in the whole chest wall geometry, with the thoracic alterations being the most fundamental. The ribcage changes in size, but not in volume, secondary to an upward bucket handle shift centred in the xiphoidal process so that the lung is not restricted. A virtuous cycle of stretching and muscle conditioning seems to be established between the enlarging uterus, the diaphragm, and the abdominal muscles to prepare these muscles for the expulsive phase. From the respiratory point of view, the supine position seems to hinder the action of the abdominal muscles during forced expiration at the end of pregnancy.

Benefits and risks of spontaneous pushing versus directed pushing during the second stage of labour among women without epidural analgesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the benefits and risks of spontaneous pushing and directed pushing used by labouring women without epidural analgesia during the second stage labour.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials published in PubMed/ MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, psycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and four Chinese databases were systematically searched from their inception to December, 2021. Grey literature were also searched. Two authors independently screened the literature and evaluated the quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

Ten studies with a total of 1510 women were pooled. Spontaneous pushing in the second stage of labour reduced the rates of Caesarean section and extended episiotomy. The difference was significant among spontaneous pushing group and directed pushing group, with relative risk and 95% confidence intervals of 0.42 and 0.19-0.94, 0.49 and 0.29-0.82, respectively. There was no significant difference in the duration of the second stage of labour, rates of spontaneous vaginal birth and newborn outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The results of this meta-analysis demonstrate that spontaneous pushing during the second stage of labour results in at least the same maternal and newborn outcomes, lower Caesarean section rates and lower incidence of extended episiotomy.

Vocalization during the second stage of labor to prevent perineal trauma: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Most women suffer some degree of perineal trauma during vaginal delivery. Second stage management strategies, including vocalization, to protect the perineum have been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the frequency and degree of perineal trauma at vaginal delivery, with and without use of the vocalization maneuver during the second stage of labor.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is an open-label, randomized controlled trial. We conducted the study at the Center for Normal Deliveries of IMIP. We included low-risk women without prior cesarean deliveries. Women who met the inclusion criteria and signed the informed consent form were randomized to one of two groups: Group A (experimental) and Group B (control). A physical therapist encouraged women in Group A to maintain an open glottis during pushing and to emit sounds when exhaling (vocalization). Women in Group B underwent routine humanized vaginal deliveries. The outcomes of the study were perineal integrity and degree of perineal laceration. These were measured by the study team immediately after completion of the third stage of labor.

RESULTS

Women in Group A tended to have less severe perineal tear (less second and third degree lacerations) and smaller lacerations than women in group B. The vocalization maneuver reduced the risk of a perineal tear greater than 2 cm by 68% (NNT 2.2). There was no difference in other outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Encouraging women to follow a vocalization protocol coached by a physical therapist during the second stage of labor can be a helpful labor assistance technique, since this study showed that vocalization is associated with less extensive perineal tears.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (www.

CLINICALTRIAL

gov) registration number: NCT03605615.

Physiological plateaus during normal labor and birth: A scoping review of contemporary concepts and definitions

BACKGROUND

Physiological plateaus (slowing, stalling, pausing) during normal labor and birth have been reported for decades, but have received limited attention in research and clinical practice. To date, heterogeneous conceptualizations and terminology have impeded effective communication and research in this area, raising concern as to whether some physiological plateaus might be misinterpreted as dystocia. To address this issue, we provide a point of orientation, mapping contemporary concepts, and terminologies of physiological plateaus during normal labor and birth.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review, considering published and unpublished reports of physiological plateaus, reported in any language, between 1990 and 2021. Database searches of CINAHL, EMBASE, Emcare, MIDIRS, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Open Grey yielded 1,953 records, with an additional 35 reports identified by hand searching. In total, 43 reports from eleven countries were included in this scoping review.

RESULTS

Conceptualizations of physiological plateaus are heterogeneous and can be allocated to six conceptual groups: cervical reversal or recoil, plateaus, lulls during transition, "rest and be thankful" stage, deceleration phase, and latent phases. Across included material, we identified over 60 different terms referring to physiological plateaus. Overall, physiological plateaus are reported across the entire continuum of normal labor and birth.

CONCLUSIONS

Physiological plateaus may be an essential mechanism of self-regulation of the mother-infant dyad, facilitating feto-maternal adaptation and preventing maternal and fetal distress during labor and birth.

On the management of maternal pushing during the second stage of labor: a biomechanical study considering passive tissue fatigue damage accumulation

BACKGROUND

During the second stage of labor, the maternal pelvic floor muscles undergo repetitive stretch loading as uterine contractions and strenuous maternal pushes combined to expel the fetus, and it is not uncommon that these muscles sustain a partial or complete rupture. It has recently been demonstrated that soft tissues, including the anterior cruciate ligament and connective tissue in sheep pelvic floor muscle, can accumulate damage under repetitive physiological (submaximal) loads. It is well known to material scientists that this damage accumulation can not only decrease tissue resistance to stretch but also result in a partial or complete structural failure. Thus, we wondered whether certain maternal pushing patterns (in terms of frequency and duration of each push) could increase the risk of excessive damage accumulation in the pelvic floor tissue, thereby inadvertently contributing to the development of pelvic floor muscle injury.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine which labor management practices (spontaneous vs directed pushing) are less prone to accumulate damage in the pelvic floor muscles during the second stage of labor and find the optimum approach in terms of minimizing the risk of pelvic floor muscle injury.

STUDY DESIGN

We developed a biomechanical model for the expulsive phase of the second stage of labor that includes the ability to measure the damage accumulation because of repetitive physiological submaximal loads. We performed 4 simulations of the second stage of labor, reflecting a directed pushing technique and 3 alternatives for spontaneous pushing.

RESULTS

The finite element model predicted that the origin of the pubovisceral muscle accumulates the most damage and so it is the most likely place for a tear to develop. This result was independent of the pushing pattern. Performing 3 maternal pushes per contraction, with each push lasting 5 seconds, caused less damage and seemed the best approach. The directed pushing technique (3 pushes per contraction, with each push lasting 10 seconds) did not reduce the duration of the second stage of labor and caused higher damage accumulation.

CONCLUSION

The frequency and duration of the maternal pushes influenced the damage accumulation in the passive tissues of the pelvic floor muscles, indicating that it can influence the prevalence of pelvic floor muscle injuries. Our results suggested that the maternal pushes should not last longer than 5 seconds and that the duration of active pushing is a better measurement than the total duration of the second stage of labor. Hopefully, this research will help to shed new light on the best practices needed to improve the experience of labor for women.

Efficacy of spontaneous pushing with pursed lips breathing compared with directed pushing in maternal and neonatal outcomes

This is a quasi-randomised clinical trial, with 62 low-risk pregnant women in the second stage of labour. They were randomly allocated in control (CG) (n = 31) and intervention (IG) (n = 31) groups. The IG performed spontaneous pushing with pursed lips breathing while the CG was oriented to perform directed pushing associated with Valsalva Manoeuvre (VM). There was no difference between the groups regarding the occurrence of episiotomy (RR 1,1; 95%IC 1,0 to 1,2). However, there was a decrease in the duration of the maternal pushing by 3.2 min (MD 3,2; 95%CI 1,4 to 5,1) and a difference in maternal anxiety (Md (IQR) IG 46 (35-52), CG 51 (44-56) p:0,049), both favouring the IG. Spontaneous pushing was effective in reducing the duration of the pushing and showed a difference in maternal anxiety but did not decrease the maternal and neonatal outcomes. Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBEC) under the identifier: RBR-556d22IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on the subject? Spontaneous pushing reduces the duration of pushing time when compared to directed pushing with VM but has no effect on other maternal and neonatal outcomes, based on a low quality of evidence.What do the results of this study add? No subject has been published on the subject. Our results suggest that the use spontaneous pushing with pursed lips breathing reduces the duration of the pushing by 3.2 min, also showing a difference in maternal anxiety. This result may indicate its use for emotional control when compared to the directed pushing.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? These findings may signal an attitude in decision-making about guiding the breathing pattern in the expulsive stage.

Pain Relief During Childbirth in the Context of 50 Years of Social and Technological Change

Pain relief during childbirth continues to stimulate controversy as new treatments emerge and continuing interventions in the birth process invoke concerns about safety, technologic imperatives, and informed consent. In this historical commentary, I identify a complex dissonance between scientific advances and women's needs and expectations regarding childbirth. Evidence-based practice became the standard during the last 50 years and has reinforced a more conservative and parsimonious use of technology to respond to women's needs for pain relief. In reviewing this history, it is apparent that pain relief during labor is inextricably linked to interventions. Nurses can advance evidence-based practice and facilitate robust informed consent as they support women during childbirth.

Is directed open-glottis pushing more effective than directed closed-glottis pushing during the second stage of labor? A pragmatic randomized trial - the EOLE study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of directed open-glottis and directed closed-glottis pushing.

DESIGN

Pragmatic, randomised, controlled, non-blinded superiority study.

SETTINGS

Four French hospitals between July 2015 and June 2017 (2 academic hospitals and 2 general hospitals).

PARTICIPANTS

250 women in labour who had undergone standardised training in the two types of pushing with a singleton fetus in cephalic presentation at term (≥37 weeks) were included by midwives and randomised; 125 were allocated to each group. The exclusion criteria were previous caesarean birth or fetal heart rate anomaly. Participants were randomised during labour, after a cervical dilation ≥ 7 cm.

INTERVENTIONS

In the intervention group, open-glottis pushing was defined as a prolonged exhalation contracting the abdominal muscles (pulling the stomach in) to help move the fetus down the birth canal. Closed-glottis pushing was defined as Valsalva pushing.

MEASUREMENTS

The principal outcome was "effectiveness of pushing" defined as a spontaneous birth without any episiotomy, second-, third-, or fourth-degree perineal lesion. The results in our intention-to-treat analysis are reported as crude relative risks (RR) with their 95% confidence intervals. A multivariable analysis was used to take the relevant prognostic and confounding factors into account and obtain an adjusted relative risk (aRR).

FINDINGS

In our intention-to-treat analysis, most characteristics were similar across groups including epidural analgesia (>95% in each group). The mean duration of the expulsion phase was longer among the open-glottis group (24.4 min ± 17.4 vs. 18.0 min ± 15.0, p=0.002). The two groups did not appear to differ in the effectiveness of their pushing (48.0% in the open-glottis group versus 55.2% in the closed-glottis group, for an adjusted relative risk (aRR) of 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74-1.14) or in their risk of instrumental birth (aRR 0.97, 95%CI 0.85-1.10).

KEY CONCLUSIONS

In maternity units with a high rate of epidural analgesia, the effectiveness of the type of directed pushing does not appear to differ between the open- and closed-glottis groups.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

If directed pushing is necessary, women should be able to choose the type of directed pushing they prefer to use during birth. Professionals must therefore be trained in both types so that they can adequately support women as they give birth.

Effect of maternal birth positions on duration of second stage of labor: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

It is believed that giving birth in an upright position is beneficial for both mother and the infant for several physiologic reasons. An upright positioning helps the uterus to contract more strongly and efficiently, the baby gets in a better position and thus can pass through the pelvis faster. Upright and lateral positions enables flexibility in the pelvis and facilitates the extension of the outlet. Before implementing a change in birthing positions in our clinics we need to review evidences available and context valid related to duration of second stage of labor and birthing positions. Therefore this review aimed to examine the effect of maternal flexible sacrum birth position on duration of second stage of labor.

METHOD

The research searched articles using bibliographical Databases: Medline/PUBMED, SCOPUS, Google scholar and Google. All study designs were considered while investigating the impact of maternal flexible sacrum birthing positioning in relation duration of second stage of labor. Studies including laboring mothers with normal labor and delivery. A total of 1985 women were included in the reviewed studies. We included both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 1680 potential citations, of which 8 articles assessed the effect of maternal upright birth positioning on the reduction during the duration of second stage of labor. Two studies were excluded because of incomplete reports for meta analysis. The result suggested a reduction in duration of second stage of labor among women in a flexible sacrum birthing position, with a mean duration from 3.2-34.8. The pooled weighted mean difference with random effect model was 21.118(CI: 11.839-30.396) minutes, with the same significant heterogeneity between the studies (I2 = 96.8%, p < 000).

CONCLUSION

The second stage duration was reduced in cases of a flexible sacrum birthing position. Even though the reduction in duration varies across studies with considerable heterogeneity, laboring women should be encouraged to choose her comfortable birth position. Researchers who aim to compare different birthing positions should consider study designs which enable women to choose birthing position. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: [CRD42019120618].

Adaptation of lung, chest wall, and respiratory muscles during pregnancy: preparing for birth

A plethora of physiological and biochemical changes occur during normal pregnancy. The changes in the respiratory system have not been as well elucidated, in part because radioimaging is usually avoided during pregnancy. We aimed to use several noninvasive methods to characterize the adaptation of the respiratory system during the full course of pregnancy in preparation for childbirth. Eighteen otherwise healthy women (32.3 ± 2.8 yr) were recruited during early pregnancy. Spirometry, optoelectronic plethysmography, and ultrasonography were used to study changes in chest wall geometry, breathing pattern, lung and thoraco-abdominal volume variations, and diaphragmatic thickness in the first, second, and third trimesters. A group of nonpregnant women were used as control subjects. During the course of pregnancy, we observed a reorganization of rib cage geometry, in shape but not in volume. Despite the growing uterus, there was no lung restriction (forced vital capacity: 101 ± 15% predicted), but we did observe reduced rib cage expansion. Breathing frequency and diaphragmatic contribution to tidal volume and inspiratory capacity increased. Diaphragm thickness was maintained (1st trimester: 2.7 ± 0.8 mm, 3rd trimester: 2.5 ± 0.9 mm; P = 0.187), possibly indicating a conditioning effect to compensate for the effects of the growing uterus. We conclude that pregnancy preserved lung volumes, abdominal muscles, and the diaphragm at the expense of rib cage muscles.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Noninvasive analysis of the kinematics of the chest wall and the diaphragm during resting conditions in pregnant women revealed significant changes in the pattern of thoracoabdominal breathing across the trimesters. That is, concomitant with the progressive changes of chest wall shape, the diaphragm increased its contribution to both spontaneous and maximal breathing, maintaining its thickness despite its lengthening due to the growing uterus. These results suggest that during pregnancy the diaphragm is conditioned to optimize its active role provided during parturition.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes from a comparison of spontaneous and directed pushing in second stage

AIM

To compare the effect of directed or spontaneous maternal pushing effort on duration of second stage labour, perineal injury and neonatal condition at birth.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional design provided data for term women with singleton, cephalic presentation experiencing a non-operative vaginal birth without regional analgesia from January 2011 to December 2017 (n=69,066) Participants matching the inclusion criteria (n=19,212) were grouped based upon spontaneous or directed pushing. Propensity score matching was used to select equally sized cohorts of similar characteristics (n=10,000). The associations with outcomes of interest were estimated using odds ratios obtained by multivariate analysis.

FINDINGS

Directed pushing was associated with a longer duration of second stage labour for nulliparous (mean 14.4min [12.0-16.8]) and multiparous (mean 8.0min [6.8-9.2]) women, and an increased risk of prolonged 2nd stage of labour in multiparous women. The use of episiotomy in the directed pushing group was significantly higher both prior to and following PS matching and adjustment. Directed pushing was also associated with an significantly increased risk of neonatal resuscitation and nursery admission. There was no difference in rates of Apgar <7 recorded at 5min of age.

CONCLUSION

Directed pushing is associated with an increased duration of second stage labour and risk of adverse neonatal outcomes. Our study suggests that in the absence of regional analgesia women should be supported to follow their own expulsive urges.

Associations between improved care during the second stage of labour and maternal and neonatal health outcomes in a rural hospital in Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of care in the second stage of labour with a package of interventions that included (1) maintaining the birthing position according to the woman's choice, (2) adopting a spontaneous pushing technique and (3) using a support person, to reduce maternal and neonatal complications.

DESIGN

Used the data collected from two cohorts- before and after an initiative to improve care during the second stage of labour.

SETTING

A rural hospital in Bangladesh where 90-100 deliveries are conducted monthly and cesarean section provision is not available.

PARTICIPANTS

One thousand and fifty-one singleton pregnancies who attended the hospital for giving birth in the first stage of labour before full dilatation of the cervix and with cephalic presentation.

MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS

Data were collected through a structured checklist and questionnaire completed by research assistants; and also retrieved from hospital case record files, and the ongoing demographic surveillance system database. Coverage of adopting the upright or lateral position in the post-intervention period increased to 76% from about 1% in the pre-intervention period, and the spontaneous pushing technique increased to 97% from 77% in the same period. The odds of combined maternal and neonatal complications decreased by 46% between pre- and post-intervention periods (odds ratio: 0.54, 95% confidence interval: 0.43-0.70). Frequency of episiotomy (from 43% to 29%, P < 0.001), cervical tear (3.8% to 1.5%, P = 0.02), and median blood loss (200 ml to 150 ml; P < 0.001) were reduced significantly in the same period. No significant associations were observed in perineal tear or birth asphyxia occurrences.

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The study suggests that there is a beneficial effect of care during the second stage of labour with a package of interventions in reducing maternal and neonatal complications, particularly in reducing the frequency of episiotomy, cervical tear, and blood loss during delivery. The preferred choice of posture during giving birth, adopting a spontaneous pushing technique and continuous presence of support person during the second stage of labour may be encouraged for better health outcomes.

Use of lubricant gel to shorten the second stage of labor during vaginal delivery

Background: Vaginal application of lubricant during labor has been studied to shorten the length of the second stage of labor.Objective: To evaluate whether vaginal application of lubricant shortens the second stage of labor.Data sources: Electronic databases were searched from their inception until February 2018. No restrictions for language or geographic location were applied.Study eligibility criteria: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the use of lubricant of the vaginal canal (i.e. intervention group) with a control group (i.e. no lubricant) in pregnant women with singleton gestation and cephalic presentation undergoing spontaneous vaginal delivery at term. Trials on other interventions that might impact second stage of labor (pushing methods, perineal massage, Ritgen's maneuver, etc.) were not included.Study appraisal and synthesis methods: All analyses were done using an intention-to-treat approach. The primary outcome was the length of the second stage of labor. Pooled analysis was performed using the random-effects model of DerSimonian and Laird to produce summary treatment effects in terms of mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI).Tabulation, integration, and results: Three RCTs including 512 women evaluating the effect of lubricant application during labor were included in the meta-analysis. All trials included pregnant women with singleton gestations in cephalic presentation at term undergoing spontaneous vaginal delivery. One trial included only nulliparous women, while the other two included both nulliparous and multiparous women. Lubricant application started in the first stage before the active phase of labor, and was done intermittently by the midwife or the physician. A sterile gel was applied into the vaginal canal manually or with an applicator. All trials used water-soluble gel. The quantity of gel used was about 2-5 ml for each vaginal examination. There were no statistically significant differences, comparing women who received lubricant gel during labor with those who did not, in the lengths of second stage of labor (MD -7.11 min, 95% CI -15.60 to 1.38), of the first stage of labor, or of the active phase of the first stage of labor. No between-group differences were noticed in the risk of perineal lacerations, mode of delivery, and in the neonatal outcomes.Conclusion: Vaginal application of lubricant during labor does not reduce the length of the second stage of labor in pregnant women with singleton gestations undergoing an attempt at spontaneous vaginal delivery at term.

Pushing/bearing down methods for the second stage of labour

BACKGROUND

Maternal pushing during the second stage of labour is an important and indispensable contributor to the involuntary expulsive force developed by uterine contraction. There is no consensus on an ideal strategy to facilitate these expulsive efforts and there are contradictory results about the influence on the mother and fetus.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and possible disadvantages of different kinds of techniques regarding maternal pushing/breathing during the expulsive stage of labour on maternal and fetal outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register (19 September 2016) and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs assessing the effects of pushing/bearing down techniques (type and/or timing) performed during the second stage of labour on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Cluster-RCTs were eligible for inclusion, but none were identified. Studies using a cross-over design and those published in abstract form only were not eligible for inclusion in this review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Data were checked for accuracy.

MAIN RESULTS

In this updated review, we included 21 studies in total, eight (884 women) comparing spontaneous pushing versus directed pushing, with or without epidural analgesia and 13 (2879 women) comparing delayed pushing versus immediate pushing with epidural analgesia. Our GRADE assessments of evidence ranged from moderate to very low quality; the main reasons for downgrading were study design limitations and imprecision of effect estimates. Overall, the included studies varied in their risk of bias; most were judged to be at unclear risk of bias. Comparison 1: types of pushing: spontaneous pushing versus directed pushingThere was no clear difference in the duration of the second stage of labour (mean difference (MD) 10.26 minutes; 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.12 to 21.64 minutes, six studies, 667 women, random-effects, I² = 81%) (very low-quality evidence). There was no clear difference in 3rd or 4th degree perineal laceration (risk ratio (RR) 0.87; 95% CI 0.45 to 1.66, one study, 320 women) (low-quality evidence), episiotomy (average RR 1.05; 95% CI 0.60 to 1.85, two studies, 420 women, random-effects, I² = 81%), duration of pushing (MD -9.76 minutes, 95% CI -19.54 to 0.02; two studies; 169 women; I² = 88%) (very low-quality evidence), or rate of spontaneous vaginal delivery (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.05; five studies; 688 women; I² = 2%) (moderate-quality evidence). For primary neonatal outcomes such as five-minute Apgar score less than seven, there was no clear difference between groups (RR 0.35; 95% CI 0.01 to 8.43, one study, 320 infants) (very low-quality evidence), and the number of admissions to neonatal intensive care (RR 1.08; 95% CI 0.30 to 3.79, two studies, 393 infants) (very low-quality evidence) also showed no clear difference between spontaneous and directed pushing. No data were available on hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy. Comparison 2: timing of pushing: delayed pushing versus immediate pushing (all women with epidural)For the primary maternal outcomes, delayed pushing was associated with an increase of 56 minutes in the duration of the second stage of labour (MD 56.40, 95% CI 42.05 to 70.76; 11 studies; 3049 women; I² = 91%) (very low-quality evidence), but no clear difference in third or 4th degree perineal laceration (RR 0.94; 95% CI 0.78 to 1.14, seven studies. 2775 women) (moderate-quality evidence) or episiotomy (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.87 to 1.04, five studies, 2320 women). Delayed pushing was also associated with a 19-minute decrease in the duration of pushing (MD -19.05, 95% CI -32.27 to -5.83; 11 studies; 2932 women; I² = 95%) (very low-quality evidence) and an increase in spontaneous vaginal delivery (RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.11, 12 studies, 3114 women) (moderate-quality evidence).For the primary neonatal outcomes, there was no clear difference between groups in admission to neonatal intensive care (RR 0.98; 95% CI 0.67 to 1.41, three studies, n = 2197) (low-quality evidence) and five-minute Apgar score less than seven (RR 0.15; 95% CI 0.01 to 3.00; three studies; 413 infants) (very low-quality evidence). There were no data on hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy. Delayed pushing was associated with a greater incidence of low umbilical cord blood pH (RR 2.24; 95% CI 1.37 to 3.68, 4 studies, 2145 infants) and increased the cost of intrapartum care by CDN$ 68.22 (MD 68.22, 95% CI 55.37, 81.07, one study, 1862 women).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This updated review is based on 21 included studies of moderate to very low quality of evidence (with evidence mainly downgraded due to study design limitations and imprecision of effect estimates).Timing of pushing with epidural is consistent in that delayed pushing leads to a shortening of the actual time pushing and increase of spontaneous vaginal delivery at the expense of an overall longer duration of the second stage of labour and an increased risk of a low umbilical cord pH (based only on one study). Nevertheless, there was no clear difference in serious perineal laceration and episiotomy, and in other neonatal outcomes (admission to neonatal intensive care, five-minute Apgar score less than seven and delivery room resuscitation) between delayed and immediate pushing.Therefore, for the type of pushing, with or without epidural, there is no conclusive evidence to support or refute any specific style as part of routine clinical practice, and in the absence of strong evidence supporting a specific method or timing of pushing, the woman's preference and comfort and clinical context should guide decisions.Further properly well-designed RCTs, addressing clinically important maternal and neonatal outcomes are required to add evidence-based information to the current knowledge. Such trials will provide more complete data to be incorporated into a future update of this review.

The Perinatal Birth Environment: Communication Strategies and Processes for Adherence to a Standardized Guideline in Women Undergoing Second-Stage Labor With Epidural Anesthesia

Key to any perinatal safety initiative is buy-in and strong leadership from obstetric and pediatric providers, advanced practice nurses, and labor and delivery nurses in collaboration with ancillary staff. In the fall of 2007, executives of a large Midwestern hospital system created the Zero Birth Injury Initiative. This multidisciplinary group sought to eliminate birth injury using the Institute of Healthcare Improvement Perinatal Bundles. Concurrently, the team implemented a standardized second-stage labor guideline for women who choose epidural analgesia for pain management to continue the work of eliminating birth injuries in second-stage labor. The purpose of this article was to describe the process of the modification and adaptation of a standardized second-stage labor guideline, as well as adherence rates of these guidelines into clinical practice. Prior to implementation, a Web-based needs assessment survey of providers was conducted. Most (77% of 180 respondents) believed there was a need for an evidence-based guideline to manage the second stage of labor. The guideline was implemented at 5 community hospitals and 1 academic health center. Data were prospectively collected during a 3-month period for adherence assessment at 1 community hospital and 1 academic health center. Providers adhered to the guideline in about 57% of births. Of patients whose provider followed the guideline, 75% of women were encouraged to delay pushing compared with only 28% of patients delayed pushing when the provider did not follow the guideline.

Spontaneous Pushing in Lateral Position versus Valsalva Maneuver During Second Stage of Labor on Maternal and Fetal Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

There are concerns about the harmful effects of the Valsalva maneuver during the second stage of labor.

Objectives

Comparing the effects of spontaneous pushing in the lateral position with the Valsalva maneuver during the second stage of labor on maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods

Inclusion criteria in this randomized clinical trial conducted in Iran were as follows: nulliparous mothers, live fetus with vertex presentation, gestational age of 37 - 40 weeks, spontaneous labor, and no complications. The intervention group pushed spontaneously while they were in the lateral position, whereas the control group pushed using Valsalva method while in the supine position at the onset of the second stage of labor. Maternal outcomes such as pain and fatigue severity and fetal outcomes such as pH and pO2 of the umbilical cord blood were measured.

Results

Data pertaining to 69 patients, divided into the intervention group (35 subjects) and control group (34 subjects), were analyzed statistically. The mean pain (7.80 ± 1.21 versus 9.05 ± 1.11) and fatigue scores (46.59 ± 21 versus 123.36 ± 43.20) of the two groups showed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Moreover, the mean duration of the second stage in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group (76.32 ± 8.26 minutes versus 64.56 ± 15.24 minutes, P = 0.001). The umbilical cord blood pO₂ levels of both groups showed a statistically significant difference (28.29 ± 11.76 versus 18.83 ± 9.86, P < 0.001), whereas their pH levels were not significantly different (P = 0.10).

Conclusions

Spontaneous pushing in the lateral position reduced fatigue and pain severity of the mothers. Also, it did not worsen fetal outcomes. Thus, it can be used as an alternative method for the Valsalva maneuver.

Pushing/bearing down methods for the second stage of labour

BACKGROUND

Maternal pushing during the second stage of labour is an important and indispensable contributor to the involuntary expulsive force developed by uterus contraction. Currently, there is no consensus on an ideal strategy to facilitate these expulsive efforts and there are contradictory results about the influence on mother and fetus.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and possible disadvantages of different kinds of techniques regarding maternal pushing/breathing during the expulsive stage of labour on maternal and fetal outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (28 January 2015) and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised assessing the effects of pushing/bearing down techniques (type and/or timing) performed during the second stage of labour on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Cluster-RCTs were eligible for inclusion but none were identified. Studies using a cross-over design and those published in abstract form only were not eligible for inclusion.We considered the following comparisons.Timing of pushing: to compare pushing, which begins as soon as full dilatation has been determined versus pushing which begins after the urge to push is felt.Type of pushing: to compare pushing techniques that involve the 'Valsalva Manoeuvre' versus all other pushing techniques.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias. Two review authors independently extracted data. Data were checked for accuracy.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 20 studies in total, seven studies (815 women) comparing spontaneous pushing versus directed pushing, with or without epidural analgesia and 13 studies (2879 women) comparing delayed pushing versus immediate pushing with epidural analgesia. The results come from studies with a high or unclear risk of bias, especially selection bias and selective reporting bias. Comparison 1: types of pushing: spontaneous pushing versus directed pushingOverall, for this comparison there was no difference in the duration of the second stage (mean difference (MD) 11.60 minutes; 95% confidence interval (CI) -4.37 to 27.57, five studies, 598 women, random-effects, I(2): 82%; T(2): 220.06). There was no clear difference in perineal laceration (risk ratio (RR) 0.87; 95% CI 0.45 to 1.66, one study, 320 women) and episiotomy (average RR 1.05 ; 95% CI 0.60 to 1.85, two studies, 420 women, random-effects, I(2) = 81%; T(2) = 0.14). The primary neonatal outcomes such as five-minute Apgar score less than seven was no different between groups (RR 0.35; 95% CI 0.01 to 8.43, one study, 320 infants), and the number of admissions to neonatal intensive care (RR 1.08; 95% CI 0.30 to 3.79, two studies, n = 393) also showed no difference between spontaneous and directed pushing and no data were available on hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy.The duration of pushing (secondary maternal outcome) was five minutes less for the spontaneous group (MD -5.20 minutes; 95% CI -7.78 to -2.62, one study, 100 women). Comparison 2: timing of pushing: delayed pushing versus immediate pushing (all women with epidural)For the primary maternal outcomes, delayed pushing was associated with an increase of 54 minutes in the duration of the second stage of labour (MD 54.29 minutes; 95% CI 38.14 to 70.43; 10 studies, 2797 women, random-effects; I(2) = 91%; T(2) = 543.38), and there was no difference in perineal laceration (RR 0.94; 95% CI 0.78 to 1.14, seven studies. 2775 women) and episiotomy (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.87 to 1.04, five studies, 2320 women). Delayed pushing was also associated with a 20-minute decrease in the duration of pushing (MD - 20.10; 95% CI -36.19 to -4.02, 10 studies, 2680 women, random-effects, I(2) = 96%; T(2) = 604.37) and an increase in spontaneous vaginal delivery (RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.11, 12 studies, 3114 women).For the primary neonatal outcomes, there was no difference between groups in admission to neonatal intensive care (RR 0.98; 95% CI 0.67 to 1.41, three studies, n = 2197) and five-minute Apgar score less than seven (RR 0.15; 95% CI 0.01 to 3.00, three studies, n = 413). There were no data on hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy. Delayed pushing was associated with a greater incidence of low umbilical cord blood pH (RR 2.24; 95% CI 1.37 to 3.68) and increased the cost of intrapartum care by CDN$ 68.22 (MD 68.22, 95% CI 55.37, 81.07, one study, 1862 women).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review is based on a total of 20 included studies that were of a mixed methodological quality.Timing of pushing with epidural is consistent in that delayed pushing leads to a shortening of the actual time pushing and increase of spontaneous vaginal delivery at the expense of an overall longer duration of the second stage of labour and double the risk of a low umbilical cord pH (based only on one study). Nevertheless, there was no difference in the caesarean and instrumental deliveries, perineal laceration and episiotomy, and in the other neonatal outcomes (admission to neonatal intensive care, five-minute Apgar score less than seven and delivery room resuscitation) between delayed and immediate pushing. Futhermore, the adverse effects on maternal pelvic floor is still unclear.Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to justify routine use of any specific timing of pushing since the maternal and neonatal benefits and adverse effects of delayed and immediate pushing are not well established.For the type of pushing, with or without epidural, there is no conclusive evidence to support or refute any specific style or recommendation as part of routine clinical practice. Women should be encouraged to bear down based on their preferences and comfort.In the absence of strong evidence supporting a specific method or timing of pushing, patient preference and clinical situations should guide decisions.Further properly well-designed randomised controlled trials are required to add evidence-based information to the current knowledge. These trials should address clinically important maternal and neonatal outcomes and will provide more complete data to be incorporated into a future update of this review.

Swedish fathers' experiences of childbirth in relation to maternal birth position: a mixed method study

BACKGROUND

Fathers often want to be involved in labour and birth.

AIM

To investigate how maternal birth position during second stage of labour may influence fathers' experience of childbirth.

METHODS

Mixed method study with 221 Swedish fathers completing an on-line questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were used.

RESULTS

In total 174 (78.7%) had a positive overall birth experience. The theme An emotional life-changing event influenced by the birth process and the structure of obstetrical care was revealed and included the categories; Midwives ability to be professional, The birth process' impact, and Being prepared to participate. The most frequently utilised birth position during a spontaneous vaginal birth was birth seat (n=83; 45.1%), and the fathers in this group were more likely to assess the birth position as very positive (n=40; 54.8%) compared to other upright and horizontal birth positions. Fathers with a partner having an upright birth position were more likely to have had a positive birth experience (p=0.048), to have felt comfortable (p=0.003) and powerful (p=0.019) compared to women adopting a horizontal birth position during a spontaneous vaginal birth. When the women had an upright birth position the fathers deemed the second stage of labour to have been more rapid (mean VAS 7.01 vs. 4.53) compared to women in a horizontal birth position.

CONCLUSION

An upright birth position enhances fathers' experience of having been positively and actively engaged in the birth process. Midwives can enhance fathers' feelings of involvement and participation by attentiveness through interaction and communicating skills.

The role of maternity care providers in promoting shared decision making regarding birthing positions during the second stage of labor

INTRODUCTION

Through the use of a variety of birthing positions during the second stage of labor, a woman can increase progress, improve outcomes, and have a positive birth experience. The role that a maternity care provider has in determining which position a woman uses during the second stage of labor has not been thoroughly explored. The purpose of this qualitative investigation was to explore how maternity care providers communicate with women during the second stage of labor regarding birthing position.

METHODS

A literature-informed framework was developed to conduct a process of deductive content analysis of communication patterns between nulliparous women and their maternity care providers during the second stage of labor. Literature discussing shared decision making, control, and predictors of positive birth experiences were reviewed to develop a coding framework. The framework included the following categories: listening to women, encouragement, information, offering choices, and style of support. Forty-one audiotapes of women and their maternity care providers during the second stage of labor were transcribed verbatim and analyzed.

RESULTS

Themes identified in the transcripts included all those in the analytic framework, plus 2 added categories of communication: empathy and interaction. Maternity care providers in this study enabled women to select various birthing positions using a dynamic process that moved between open, informative approaches and more closed, directive approaches, depending on the woman's needs and clinical condition. As clinical conditions unfolded, women became more actively involved in shared decision making regarding birthing positions, and maternity care providers found the right balance between being responsive to the woman's questions or directives.

DISCUSSION

Enabling shared decision making during birth is not a linear process using a single approach; it is dynamic process that requires a variety of approaches. Maternity care providers can support a woman to use different birthing positions during the second stage of labor by employing a flexible style that incorporates clinical assessment and the woman's responses.

Coordination of breathing with nonrespiratory activities

Many articles in this section of Comprehensive Physiology are concerned with the development and function of a central pattern generator (CPG) for the control of breathing in vertebrate animals. The action of the respiratory CPG is extensively modified by cortical and other descending influences as well as by feedback from peripheral sensory systems. The central nervous system also incorporates other CPGs, which orchestrate a wide variety of discrete and repetitive, voluntary and involuntary movements. The coordination of breathing with these other activities requires interaction and coordination between the respiratory CPG and those governing the nonrespiratory activities. Most of these interactions are complex and poorly understood. They seem to involve both conventional synaptic crosstalk between groups of neurons and fluid identity of neurons as belonging to one CPG or another: neurons that normally participate in breathing may be temporarily borrowed or hijacked by a competing or interrupting activity. This review explores the control of breathing as it is influenced by many activities that are generally considered to be nonrespiratory. The mechanistic detail varies greatly among topics, reflecting the wide variety of pertinent experiments.

Early pushing urge in labour and midwifery practice: a prospective observational study at an Italian maternity hospital

OBJECTIVE

to investigate the early pushing urge (EPU) incidence in one maternity unit and explore how it is managed by midwives. The relation to some obstetric outcomes was also observed but not analysed in depth.

DESIGN

prospective observational study.

SETTING

Italian maternity hospital.

SAMPLE

60 women (44 nullips and 16 multips) experiencing EPU during labour.

FINDINGS

the total EPU incidence percentage was 7.6%. The single midwives' incidences range had a very wide margin, noting an inverse proportion between the number of diagnoses of EPU and midwife's waiting time between urge to push and vaginal examination. Two care policies were adopted in relation to the phenomenon: the stop pushing technique (n=52/60) and the 'let the woman do what she feels' technique (n=8/60). In case of stop pushing techniques, midwives proposed several combined techniques (change of maternal position, blowing breath, vocalisation, use of the bath). The EPU diagnosis at less than 8cm of cervical dilatation was associated with more medical interventions. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were within the range of normal physiology. An association between the dilatation at EPU diagnosis and obstetric outcomes was observed, in particular the modality of childbirth and perineal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

this paper contributes new knowledge to the body of literature around the EPU phenomenon during labour and midwifery practices adopted in response to it. Overall, it could be argued that EPU is a physiologic variation in labour if maternal and fetal conditions are good. Midwives might suggest techniques to woman to help her to stay with the pain, such as change of position, blowing breath, vocalisation and use of the bath. However, the impact of policies, guidelines and culture on midwifery practices of the specific setting are a limitation of the study because it is not representative of other similar maternity units. Thus, a larger scale work should be considered, including different units and settings. The optimal response to the phenomenon should be studied, considering EPU at different dilatation ranges. Future investigations could also focus on qualitative analysis of women and midwives' personal experience in relation to the phenomenon.

Immediate compared with delayed pushing in the second stage of labor: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate whether immediate or delayed pushing in the second stage of labor optimizes spontaneous vaginal delivery and other perinatal outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

We searched electronic databases MEDLINE and CINHAL through August 2011 without restrictions. The search terms used were MeSH headings, text words, and word variations of the words or phrases labor, laboring down, passive descent, passive second stage, physiologic second stage, spontaneous pushing, pushing, or bearing down.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

We searched for randomized controlled trials comparing immediate with delayed pushing in the second stage of labor. The primary outcome was spontaneous vaginal delivery. Secondary outcomes were instrumental delivery, cesarean delivery, duration of the second stage, duration of active pushing, and other maternal and neonatal outcomes. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Q test and I2. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and weighted mean differences were calculated using random-effects models.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Twelve randomized controlled trials (1,584 immediate and 1,531 delayed pushing) met inclusion criteria. Overall, delayed pushing was associated with an increased rate of spontaneous vaginal delivery compared with immediate pushing (61.5% compared with 56.9%, pooled RR 1.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.15). This increase was smaller and not statistically significant among high-quality studies (59.0% compared with 54.9%, pooled RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.98-1.26) but larger and statistically significant in lower-quality studies (81.0% compared with 71.0%%, pooled RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02-1.24). Operative vaginal delivery rates were high in most studies and not significantly different between the two groups (33.7% compared with 37.4%, pooled RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.76-1.06). Delayed pushing was associated with prolongation of the second stage (weighted mean difference 56.92 minutes, 95% CI 42.19-71.64) and shortened duration of active pushing (weighted mean difference -21.98 minutes, 95% CI -31.29 to -12.68).

CONCLUSION

Studies to date suggest there are few clinical differences in outcomes with immediate compared with delayed pushing in the second stage of labor, especially when high-quality studies are pooled. Effects on maternal and neonatal outcomes remain uncertain.

Trial of instrumental delivery in theatre versus immediate caesarean section for anticipated difficult assisted births

BACKGROUND

The majority of women have spontaneous vaginal births, but some women need assistance in the second stage with delivery of the baby, using either the obstetric forceps or vacuum extraction. Rates of instrumental vaginal delivery range from 5% to 20% of all births in industrialised countries. The majority of instrumental vaginal deliveries are conducted in the delivery room, but in a small proportion (2% to 5%), a trial of instrumental vaginal delivery is conducted in theatre with preparations made for proceeding to caesarean section.

OBJECTIVES

To determine differences in maternal and neonatal morbidity between women who, due to anticipated difficulty, have trial of instrumental vaginal delivery in theatre and those who have immediate caesarean section for failure to progress in the second stage.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (28 June 2012).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials comparing trial of instrumental vaginal delivery (vacuum extraction or forceps) in operating theatre to immediate caesarean section for women with failure to progress in the second stage (active second stage more than 60 minutes in primigravidae).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We identified no studies meeting our inclusion criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

No studies were included.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no current evidence from randomised trials to influence practice.

When and how to push: providing the most current information about second-stage labor to women during childbirth education

Childbirth educators can have a significant impact on safe care for mothers and babies during the second stage of labor. In this guest editorial, educators are encouraged to make sure they are knowledgeable about the latest evidence for best second-stage-care practices so they can adequately prepare women to advocate for themselves during this time.

Factors influencing the fulfillment of women's preferences for birthing positions during second stage of labor

Having choices and being involved in decision making contributes to women's positive childbirth experiences. During a physiological birth, women's preferences can play a leading role in the choice of birthing positions. In this study, we explored women's preferences with regard to birthing positions during second stage of labor, with a special focus on women who preferred positions other than common supine positions. A questionnaire survey was conducted among women in 54 Dutch midwifery practices. Of the 1154 women in the study, 58.9% preferred supine positions, 19.6% preferred other positions (e.g. sitting or standing), and 21.5% had no distinct preference. Women who preferred supine positions gave birth in these positions more often than women with preferences for other positions. Among the women having a preference for other positions, the actual fulfillment of their preference was related to longer duration of second stage of labor, higher levels of education, the strength of the preference, and giving birth at home. These results demonstrate differences in women's use of preferred positions during childbirth. Midwives can contribute to women-centered care by proactively exploring women's preferences for birthing positions throughout pregnancy and birth, supporting women in developing well-informed choices and facilitating these choices where possible.

Comparison of delayed versus immediate pushing during second stage of labor for nulliparous women with epidural anesthesia

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the use of delayed pushing after the onset of the second stage of labor decreases the time of active pushing and decreases maternal fatigue.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial.

SETTING

Labor and delivery unit of a not-for-profit community hospital.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Convenience sample of nulliparous laboring women with epidural anesthesia.

INTERVENTIONS

Immediate or delayed pushing (2 hours) during the second stage of labor at the time of complete cervical dilatation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The length of pushing, total length of the second stage, and maternal fatigue.

RESULTS

A total of 77 women were studied (immediate pushing group=39; delayed pushing=38). The immediate pushing group averaged 94 (± 57) minutes in active pushing, while the delayed pushing group averaged 68 (± 46) minutes, a statistically significant difference (p=.04). No significant differences were found in fatigue scores between the immediate and delayed pushing groups (p>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that by delaying the onset of active pushing for 2 hours after the beginning of the second stage of labor, the time that nulliparous women with epidural anesthesia spent in active pushing was significantly decreased by 27%. Although the delayed pushing group rested for up to 2 hours, the total time in the second stage of labor averaged only 59 minutes longer than the immediate pushing group.

Juggling Instinct and Fear: An Ethnographic Study of Facilitators and Inhibitors of Physiological Birth Positioning in Two Different Birth Settings

BACKGROUND: Although there is evidence to support the benefits for women of using a variety of birth positions, particularly upright birth positions, there is limited research into practices that facilitate or inhibit physiological birth positioning.

AIM: To explore how physiological birth positioning is facilitated by midwives and experienced by women in two main settings in New South Wales (NSW), Australia (birth center and delivery ward).

METHOD: An ethnographic approach guided data collection and analysis in this study. Data was collected using observation of women in the second stage of labor, focus groups with midwives, and interviews with women.

RESULTS: Women were more likely to assume upright birth positions in the birth center setting (81.84%) than in the delivery ward setting (24.47%). They also instinctively wanted to lean forward during labor and birth. Midwives and women constantly “juggle instinct and fear” as they work to adapt to the birth environment, and this impacts physiological birth positioning.

CONCLUSION: Women are more likely to adopt physiological birth positions during the first and second stage of labor in a birth center setting compared to a delivery ward setting. The birth center setting acts as a facilitator for physiological birth positions by providing a buffer from medicalized care.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: An in-depth exploration into facilitators and inhibitors of physiological birth positioning in two different birth settings provided new insights. Findings from this study have the potential to inform clinical practice through the design of birth environments and models of care that are available to women.

Best Practices in Second Stage Labor Care: Maternal Bearing Down and Positioning

Despite evidence of adverse fetal and maternal outcomes from the use of sustained Valsalva bearing down efforts, current second-stage care practices are still characterized by uniform directions to "push" forcefully upon complete dilatation of the cervix while the woman is in a supine position. Directed pushing might slightly shorten the duration of second stage labor, but can also contribute to deoxygenation of the fetus; cause damage to urinary, pelvic, and perineal structures; and challenge a woman's confidence in her body. Research on the second stage of labor care is reviewed, with a focus on recent literature on maternal bearing down efforts, the "laboring down" approach to care, second-stage duration, and maternal position. Clinicians can apply the scientific evidence regarding the detrimental effects of sustained Valsalva bearing down efforts and supine positioning by individualizing second stage labor care and supporting women's involuntary bearing down sensations that can serve to guide her behaviors.

Common Problems of Urination in Nonpregnant Women: Causes, Current Management, and Prevention Strategies

This article uses a case-based approach to review common problems of urination in nonpregnant women, including overactive bladder; stress, urge, and mixed incontinence; and retention and prolapse. Up-to-date clinical issues related to assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up are reviewed, with a discussion of underlying pathophysiology and prevention strategies. Suggestions are made for relevant curriculum content at both the basic and advanced levels of advanced practice education.

Why Do Supportive Birth Attendants Become Directive of Maternal Bearing-Down Efforts in Second-Stage Labor?

A supportive approach to care for women during the second stage of labor that primarily relies on the laboring woman's involuntary expulsive urges has been advocated. We aimed to learn about the clinical circumstances surrounding the caregiver shift from being primarily supportive to directing women regarding their bearing-down efforts. This research analyzed the communications of 10 birth attendants and women during the expulsive phase of labor using videotapes recorded from two studies carried out between 1986 and the present. The occasions when a birth attendant shifted verbalizations were identified, and categories of the rationales that may have influenced the modification in caregiver behavior were developed. Birth attendants most frequently provided directions to help the woman push effectively, that is, to focus the woman's bearing-down efforts during maternal distress, fatigue, fear, and pain to expedite the labor process (38% of the occasions of caregiver change in verbalizations). The next most frequent clinical situations when caregivers offered directions about "pushing" were diminished urge to bear-down with epidural analgesia (10%), routine arbitrary practices (9% caregiver and 6% by supportive companion), and fetal distress (<1%). A category of "supportive direction" (20%) was identified. This care strategy has not been previously reported. It combined direction with support in a way that was supportive rather than overriding the woman's involuntary efforts.

How different is qualitative health research from qualitative research? Do we have a subdiscipline?

Here, I compare the content, characteristics of participants, and the methods used in qualitative health research with qualitative inquiry in general. Special problems that occur when conducting research in an institution, with the emotional content when participants are ill, in pain, or dying, will be discussed. What concerns for the investigator, for the researcher as a person, and methodological quandaries occur? The bottom line is: Do we have a subdiscipline? Is there a need for a special forum for those practicing qualitative health/illness research?

Effects of a pushing intervention on pain, fatigue and birthing experiences among Taiwanese women during the second stage of labour

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate maternal labour pain, fatigue, duration of the second stage of labour, the women's bearing-down experiences and the newborn infant Apgar scores when spontaneous pushing is used in an upright position.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental study.

SETTING

Medical centre in Taichung, Taiwan.

PARTICIPANTS

66 Women giving birth at the hospital, with 33 primigravidas assigned to each group.

INTERVENTIONS

During the second stage of labour, the women in the experimental group pushed from an upright position and were given support to push spontaneously; the women in the control group pushed from a supine position and were supported via Valsalva pushing.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Pain scores were recorded at two evaluation time points: at 10 cm of cervical dilation and one hour after the first pain score evaluation. One to four hours after childbirth, the trained nurses collected the fatigue and pushing experience scores.

FINDINGS

The women in the experimental group had a lower pain index (5.67 versus 7.15, p = 0.01), lower feelings of fatigue post birth (53.91 versus 69.39, p < 0.001), a shorter duration of the second stage of labour (91.0 versus 145.97, p = 0.02) and more positive labour experiences (39.88 versus 29.64, p < 0.001) compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in the Apgar score for newborn infants during either the first minute (7.70 versus 7.73, p = 0.72) or the fifth minute (8.91 versus 8.94, p = 0.64).

KEY CONCLUSIONS

The pushing intervention during the second stage of labour lessened pain and fatigue, shortened the pushing time and enhanced the pushing experience.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Pushing interventions can yield increased satisfaction levels for women giving birth.

Perinatal urinary and fecal incontinence: suffering in silence

This article focuses on the prevention, identification, and management of urinary and fecal incontinence in the perinatal period. Both urinary and fecal incontinence are common concerns affecting women throughout pregnancy, intrapartum, and postpartum. These are the problems that are not approached by healthcare providers during the initial antepartal assessment, nor are they fully investigated after delivery. Many women hesitate to disclose this information. Women tend to consider this to be a minor discomfort of pregnancy and a consequence resulting from childbirth in the postpartum period. Intervention strategies and nursing care components in the perinatal period will be presented.

Delayed versus immediate pushing in second stage of labor

PURPOSE

Comparison of two different methods for management of second stage of labor: immediate pushing at complete cervical dilation of 10 cm and delayed pushing 90 minutes after complete cervical dilation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a randomized clinical trial in a labor and delivery unit of a not-for-profit community hospital. A sample of 44 nulliparous mothers with continuous epidural anesthesia were studied after random assignment to treatment groups. Subjects were managed with either immediate or delayed pushing during the second stage of labor at the time cervical dilation was complete. The primary outcome measure was the length of pushing during second stage of labor. Secondary outcomes included length of second stage of labor, maternal fatigue and perineal injuries, and fetal heart rate decelerations. Two-tailed, unpaired Student's t-tests and Chi-square analysis were used for data analysis. Level of significance was set at p < .01 following a Bonferroni correction for multiple t-tests.

RESULTS

A total of 44 subjects received the study intervention (N = 28 immediate pushing; N = 16 delayed pushing). The delayed pushing group had significantly shorter amount of time spent in pushing compared with the immediate pushing group (38.9 +/- 6.9 vs. 78.7 +/- 7.9 minutes, respectively, p = .002). Maternal fatigue scores, perineal injuries, and fetal heart rate decelerations were similar for both groups.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Delaying pushing for up to 90 minutes after complete cervical dilation resulted in a significant decrease in the time mothers spent pushing without a significant increase in total time in second stage of labor.In clinical practice, healthcare providers sometimes resist delaying the onset of pushing after second stage of labor has begun because of a belief it will increase labor time. This study's finding of a 51% reduction in pushing time when mothers delay pushing for up to 90 minutes, with no significant increase in overall time for second stage of labor, disputes that concern.

How caregivers manage pain and distress in second-stage labor

Innovative care interactions are needed when helping a woman who exhibits severe pain or distress during the second stage of labor. We describe how caregivers and laboring women interacted during second-stage labor, with particular attention to how caregivers managed pain and distress. We used observational methods to perform a microanalysis of behaviors from video-recorded data. Pain occurred during labor contractions, and distress (an emotional response to pain) manifested primarily between contractions. Four patterns of women's behavior were identified: 1) no pain or distress, 2) low-level pain and/or distress, 3) focused working, and 4) severe pain and/or distress. Successful care was identified as enabling the woman to maintain herself in any state other than severe pain and/or distress. Particular modes of speech used by the caregiver enabled the attainment of successful care when the woman was not in severe pain or distress. When severe pain or distress existed, innovative caregiving transitioned the woman to another state. Successful intervention strategies included 1) giving innovative directions and 2) "talking down." Ordinary modes of "birth talk" can be used when severe pain or distress is not manifested and when the primary care problem is to assist women with bearing down. Innovative care interactions are needed when faced with severe pain or distress. Managing labor pain is an ongoing focus of clinicians who provide care to women in labor. In addition to pain, women might also experience distress, an emotional response to the labor experience. Whether from choice or necessity, caregivers for laboring women need nonpharmacologic interventions and interpersonal skills that can help women endure labor and give birth. Labor is hard work, and even in precipitous labors most women require assistance. Care given to a laboring woman consists of employing comforting strategies that help her cope with the pain of uterine contractions. The purpose of these comfort strategies is to help the woman find needed resilience during labor. Most cultures have mechanisms for providing this kind of support. In this article, we identify patterns of behavior used by laboring women and describe successful and unsuccessful strategies used by caregivers to help these women deal with pain and distress during the second stage of labor.

Birth talk in second stage labor

In this secondary analysis of videotape data, we describe birth talk demonstrated by caregivers to women during the second stage of labor. Birth talk is a distinctive verbal register or a set of linguistic features that are used with particular behaviors during specific situations, has a particular communication purpose, and is characterized by distinctive language features. Birth talk is found cross-culturally among speakers of diverse languages. Our findings show that birth talk occurred mainly during contractions and co-occurred with two general styles of caregiving: "directed toward forced bearing down" and "supportive of physiologic bearing down." We also describe talk that occurred during rest periods, which was similar across the two styles. Caregivers' use of language tended to be either procedural (giving directions, instructions) or comfort related (encouraging and supporting). Linguistic features of the talk consisted of utterances of short duration, level pitch patterns with no sudden pitch shifts, and a restricted pitch range.

Second-stage labor care: challenges in spontaneous bearing down

Substantial scientific evidence supports spontaneous maternal bearing down for its associated maternal and fetal physiologic benefits. Imposing specific directions for Valsalva pushing does not result in optimal outcomes but continues to be widely used, particularly when labor progress is less than optimal. However, there are numerous evidence-based approaches that can be used to avoid reverting to directed, prolonged Valsalva bearing down. Nursing care challenges may be encountered when using physiologic approaches; therefore, strategies are detailed to alleviate a variety of problems including ways to promote physiological descent and effectively support women's spontaneous efforts. For example, maternal postural interventions are suggested for asynclitic and occiput posterior fetal positions. When fetal heart rate abnormalities present and the fetus may be compromised, modifications to spontaneous bearing down are suggested as alternatives to longer and stronger Valsalva pushing, such as encouraging the women to use short pushes or breath through contractions until the fetus recovers. Open knee-chest maternal positioning can help to diminish a premature urge to push, while the closed knee-chest position may be more useful if cervical edema occurs. Even with clinical challenges, evidence-based care can help achieve the improved outcomes documented from women's spontaneous bearing-down efforts during the second stage.