Prevalence of Prolonged Latent Phase and Labor Outcomes: Review of Birth Records in a Swedish Population

Investigating the associations between early labour onset symptoms and self-diagnosed labour onset in a cohort study of primiparas

OBJECTIVE

The early recognition of possible labour onset symptoms may be pivotal to identifying the beginning of early labour and are usually recognised by the birthing women themselves. The present study illustrates the interrelationship among five labour-onset symptoms and explores the association of these labour-onset symptoms with the self-diagnosed labour onset of primiparas.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study on a sample of 69 primigravida in Giessen, Germany, expecting spontaneous onset of labour at term. The participants filled in a diary from ≥37 + 0 weeks gestation until self-diagnosed labour onset. Descriptive, bivariate and inferential analysis explored association of labour onset symptoms with self-diagnosed labour onset while accounting for maternal and newborn characteristics.

RESULTS

Self-diagnosed labour onset was positively associated with all symptoms and clinical characteristics, apart from irregular pain and maternal weight and age. Moreover, regular pain was negatively correlated with irregular pain; having regular pain increased the odds of self-diagnosed labour onset substantially (OR: 10.18, 95 % CI: 2.39-66.27), followed by gastrointestinal symptoms (OR: 2.07, 95 % CI: 0.40-13.10) and emotional symptoms (OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 0.30-13.98).

CONCLUSION

Being the initiator of intrapartum care without any birth experience, primiparas are prone to experiencing dissatisfaction in care and may enter professional care too late or too early. The present study showed that regular pain may signify primiparas to self-diagnose labour onset within 24 h and indicate early labour symptoms that may be relevant for a self-diagnosed labour onset.

New definitions, old complications: The association between duration of transition from latent to active labor and adverse obstetrical outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between the duration of transition from latent to active labor and various obstetric, maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on term, singleton deliveries at Soroka University Medical Center from 2013 to 2018. Data were extracted from electronic medical records. The exposure variable was defined as prolonged transition, which was itself defined as the upper 10th centile of dilation duration from 4 to 6 cm. Clinical and demographic characteristics were compared using χ2 test. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the contribution of a prolonged transition with each adverse outcome adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

In all, 12 104 deliveries met the inclusion criteria. The mean ± standard deviation of duration of dilation from 4 to 6 cm was 03:07:58 ± 03:03:42 (hours:minutes:seconds). Progress curves varied significantly among patients with different obstetrical and demographic characteristics. Prolonged transition was significantly linked to an increased risk of cesarean delivery (adjusted odds raito 2.607, 95% confidence interval 2.171-3.130, area under the curve 0.689) and higher rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients experiencing transition phases exceeding the 90th centile faced an elevated risk of cesarean delivery and postpartum complications. Future studies should focus on interventions during the transition phase to improve pregnancy outcomes and enhance patient safety.

Relationship between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Levels with Pain Intensity and Duration of Labor Stages in Primiparous Women

Background

Prolonged labor is associated with various maternal and neonatal complications. This study aims to investigate the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels and pain intensity and duration of labor stages in primiparous women.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Iran from November 2021 to January 2022 and comprised primiparous women who were in active labor after a term pregnancy (37-42 weeks). Five milliliter of blood was taken from each subject and centrifuged for the measurement of vitamin D level using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HLPC) method was used to measure 25-OH vitamin D. In addition, through history, examination, and investigations, the subjects were evaluated according to the pain intensity and duration of the first (active phase) and second stages of labor.

Results

The results of the Pearson correlation test indicated a significant relationship between vitamin D and active phase duration (r = 0.64, p = 0.012), second stage duration (r = 0.73, p = 0.001), pain intensity of the active phase (r = 0.61, p = 0.022), and pain intensity of the second stage (r = 0.65, p = 0.026). According to the analysis of variance table, based on vitamin D, there were statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the active phase duration, second stage duration, pain intensity of the active phase, and that of the second stage of labor (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Low levels of vitamin D may influence the progress of labor and increase the rate of prolonged labor.

Prediction model for labour dystocia occurring in the active phase

To establish and verify a model for labour dystocia occurring in the active phase, this study retrospectively analysed the clinical data of primiparas with singleton cephalic full-term foetuses, who had delivered after a trial of labour. The Chi-square test, t-test, Mann-Whitney U test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Based on the model a nomogram was established using the R programming language. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the foetal abdominal circumference, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), prolonged latent phase, foetal station and foetal position at the early stage of the active phase were independent factors influencing labour dystocia occurring in the active phase. The established model could effectively and accurately support clinicians in the early identification of labour dystocia to improve maternal and infant outcomes.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? Labour dystocia occurring during the active phase of the first stage, is the most commonly diagnosed as labour aberration. Previous studies have suggested that maternal age, body mass index, macrosomia and abnormal foetal position are the independent risk factors for labour dystocia. However, only the risk factors were reported, and few prediction models were established.What do the results of this study add? This study uses data in the real world to establish a prediction model of full-term singleton primipara with labour dystocia occurring in the active phase by logistic regression analysis. Foetal abdomen circumference, PROM, prolonged latent phase, the foetal station and foetal position at the early stage of the active phase are independent factors influencing labour dystocia that occurs in the active phase. In addition, a nomogram is established as a visual graph to predict the probability of it.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The nomogram based on the predictive model discarded complicated calculations and presented an easy visual graph-based method to predict the probability of labour dystocia occurring in the active phase. It helps to introduce interventions that could reduce the CS rate and occurrence of adverse maternal and foetal outcomes to ensure the safety of mothers and infants.

Childbearing with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders: A Large International Survey of Outcomes and Complications

One in 20 births could be affected by hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (hEDS/HSD); however, these are under-diagnosed and lacking research. This study aimed to examine outcomes and complications in people childbearing with hEDS/HSD. A large online international survey was completed by women with experience in childbearing and a diagnosis of hEDS/HSD (N = 947, total pregnancies = 1338). Data were collected on demographics, pregnancy and birth outcomes and complications. Participants reported pregnancies in the UK (N = 771), USA (N = 364), Australia (N = 106), Canada (N = 60), New Zealand (N = 23) and Ireland (N = 14). Incidences were higher in people with hEDS/HSD than typically found in the general population for pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, pre-term rupture of membranes, pre-term birth, antepartum haemorrhage, postpartum haemorrhage, hyperemesis gravidarum, shoulder dystocia, caesarean wound infection, postpartum psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, precipitate labour and being born before arrival at place of birth. This potential for increased risk related to maternal and neonatal outcomes and complications highlights the importance of diagnosis and appropriate care considerations for childbearing people with hEDS/HSD. Recommendations include updating healthcare guidance to include awareness of these possible complications and outcomes and including hEDS/HSD in initial screening questionnaires of perinatal care to ensure appropriate consultation and monitoring can take place from the start.

Perinatal outcomes after therapeutic rest in the latent phase of labor: A cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Therapeutic rest refers to the usage of medication to relieve pain in women in the latent phase of labor. Very few data are available to evaluate the safety and effect of its use. The objectives of this study were to compare perinatal and labor outcomes in women who were seeking hospital care during the latent phase of labor and who were treated either with or without therapeutic rest.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study with inclusion of nulliparous singleton pregnant women in the latent phase of labor presenting at the labor ward at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark from May 13, 2018 to June 1, 2021. We identified two groups: women who were treated with therapeutic rest and women who were not. The primary outcomes were neonatal admission and neonatal resuscitation. Secondary outcomes included use of cardiotocography during labor, nonreactive fetal heart rate, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, pediatric delivery room assistance, umbilical cord arterial pH and standard base excess, Apgar score at 5 minutes, interventions during labor and mode of delivery.

RESULTS

In our sample of 800 women in the latent phase of labor, 414 women (52%) were treated with therapeutic rest and 386 women (48%) were not. The most frequently used (n = 206) medication for therapeutic rest was a combination of paracetamol, triazolam and codeine. We found no significant difference in neonatal admission (9.2% vs 6.5%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.4-3.1) or neonatal resuscitation (2.4% vs 3.1%, aOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.1-4.0) between women treated with or without therapeutic rest. There were no differences between the two groups in other perinatal adverse outcomes, interventions during labor or mode of delivery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found no significant association between therapeutic rest and neonatal admission or resuscitation. Our findings indicate that therapeutic rest is a safe method for managing the latent phase of labor concerning neonatal health and does not increase the risk of labor complications.

Latent phase duration and associated outcomes: a contemporary, population-based observational study

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the latent phase of labor, including whether its duration influences subsequent labor processes or birth outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the duration of the latent phase of labor from self-report of the onset of painful contractions to a cervical dilation of 5 cm in a large, Swedish population and evaluate the association between the duration of the latent phase of labor and perinatal processes and outcomes that occurred during the active phase of labor, second stage of labor, birth and immediately after delivery, stratified by parity.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a population-based cohort study of 67,267 pregnancies with deliveries between 2008 and 2020 in the Stockholm-Gotland Regions, Sweden. Nulliparous and parous women without a history of cesarean delivery in spontaneous labor with a term (≥37 weeks of gestation), singleton, live, and vertex fetus without major malformations were included. Imputation was used if the notation of the end of the latent phase of labor (ie, cervical dilation of 5 cm) was missing in the partograph. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the association with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, controlling for potential covariates.

RESULTS

Including the time from painful contraction onset to a cervical dilation of 5 cm, the median durations of the latent phase of labor were 16.0 (interquartile range, 10.0-26.6) hours for nulliparous women and 9.4 (interquartile range, 5.9-15.3) hours for multiparous women. The durations of the latent phase of labor beyond the median were associated with increased odds of labor dystocia diagnosis during the first stage active phase or second stage of labor and interventions commonly associated with dystocia (amniotomy, oxytocin augmentation, epidural, and cesarean delivery). The duration of the latent phase of labor of ≥90th percentile vs less than the median in nulliparous women demonstrated an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes (Apgar score of <7 at 5 minutes and neonatal intensive care unit admission), chorioamnionitis, and fetal occiput posterior. In multiparous women, longer duration of the latent phase of labor was associated with an increased risk of neonatal intensive care unit admission and chorioamnionitis but was not associated with an Apgar score of <7 at 5 minutes. The duration of the latent phase of labor was not associated with additional markers of maternal risk.

CONCLUSION

The duration of the latent phase of labor in nulliparous women was longer than that of multiparous women at each point of distribution. A longer duration of the latent phase of labor was associated with more frequent dystocia diagnoses and related interventions during the first stage active phase or second stage of labor, including cesarean delivery, nulliparous fetal occiput posterior position, chorioamnionitis, and markers of neonatal morbidity. More research is needed to identify potential mediating paths between the duration of the latent phase of labor and neonatal morbidity.

Primiparous women's expectations and experiences of early labour: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To gain a deeper understanding of primiparous women's preparation for early labour as well as their expectations and experiences of symptoms of onset of labour.

METHODS

A qualitative study using focus group discussion was conducted with n = 18 first-time mothers within the first six months of giving birth. Discussions were transcribed verbatim and coded and summarised into themes by two researchers using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

The statements of the participants revealed four themes: 'Preparing for the unpredictable', 'Expectations and reality', 'Perception and wellbeing' and 'Experiencing the beginning of birth'. Many women could not distinguish the preparation for early labour from that for the whole birth. Relaxation techniques to prepare for early labour were found to be very helpful. For some women, it was a big challenge that expectations often did not correspond to the experienced reality. Pregnant women faced many different physical and emotional symptoms of onset of labour with striking variability. Emotions ranged from positively excited to having fears. Not being able to sleep for hours was a huge problem for the labour process of some women. While early labour at home was experienced positively, early labour in hospital was sometimes difficult, because women had the feeling of being in the second rank.

CONCLUSION

The study clearly identified the individual character of experiencing onset of labour and early labour. The variety of experiences highlighted the need for individualised, woman-centred early labour care. Further research should investigate new paths for assessing, advising, and caring for women during early labour.

The latent phase of labor

The latent phase of labor extends from the initiation of labor to the onset of the active phase. Because neither margin is always precisely identifiable, the duration of the latent phase often can only be estimated. During this phase, the cervix undergoes a process of rapid remodeling, which may have begun gradually weeks before. As a consequence of extensive changes in its collagen and ground substance, the cervix softens, becomes thinner and dramatically more compliant, and may dilate modestly. All of these changes prepare the cervix for the more rapid dilatation that will occur during the active phase to follow. For the clinician, it is important to recognize that the latent phase may normally extend for many hours. The normal limit for the duration of the latent phase should be considered to be approximately 20 hours in a nullipara and 14 hours in a multipara. Factors that have been associated with a prolonged latent phase include deficient prelabor or intrapartum cervical remodeling, excessive maternal analgesia or anesthesia, maternal obesity, and chorioamnionitis. Approximately 10% of women with a prolonged latent phase are actually in false labor, and their contractions eventually abate spontaneously. The management of a prolonged latent phase involves either augmenting uterine activity with oxytocin or providing a sedative-induced period of maternal rest. Both are equally effective in advancing the labor to active phase dilatation. A very long latent phase may be a harbinger of other labor dysfunctions.

Complementary and Integrative Health Practices in a Brazilian Freestanding Birth Center: A Cross-Sectional Study

The study aimed to analyze the use of complementary and integrative health practices (CIHPs) during labor and birth in a freestanding birth center. A total of 28 different CIHPs were applied with or used by laboring women. The most adopted CIHPs were mind-body practices (99.9%) and natural products (35.5%), mostly used by primiparous women (P <.05). Adopting CIHPs can increase care quality, increase positive experiences during childbirth, and promote evidence-based choices.

Development and validation of a tool for advising primiparous women during early labour: study protocol for the GebStart Study

INTRODUCTION

Pregnant women experience early labour with different physical and emotional symptoms. Early admission to hospital has been found to be associated with increased intervention and caesarean section rates. However, primiparous women often contact the hospital before labour progresses because they encounter difficulties coping with symptoms of onset of labour on their own. An evidence-based instrument for assessing the individual needs to advise primiparous women during early labour is currently missing. The study aims to develop and validate a tool to inform the joint decision for or against hospital admission.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A scale development and validation study will be conducted including following steps: (1) Generation of a pool with 99 items based on a scoping review and focus group discussions with primiparous women, (2) Assessment of content and face validity by an expert panel and item reduction to 32 items, (3) Multicentre data collection in six study sites in Switzerland, with application of the preliminary tool and the validation items with a target sample size of approximately n=400 women and (4), item reduction using exploratory factor analysis, factor loading and item-to-item correlation. Internal consistency of the tool will be assessed using Cronbach's alpha and convergent validity computing correlations of items of the tool with the German versions of the Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory and the Cambridge-Worry Scale. Analyses will be performed using Stata V.17.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was obtained by the Ethics Committees Zurich and Northwestern and Central Switzerland (BASEC-Nr. 2021-00687). Results will be disseminated at the final study conference, at national and international congresses and by peer reviewed and not peer-reviewed articles in scientific and professional journals. Approved and anonymised data will be shared. The dissemination of the findings will have a contributable impact on clinical practice, scientific discussions and future research.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

DRKS00025572, SNCTP000004555.

Effectiveness of Breathing Exercises, Foot Reflexology and Massage (BRM) on Maternal and Newborn Outcomes Among Primigravidae in Saudi Arabia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Labor pain and anxiety are important concerns during labor, especially among the primigravidae. It may increase the duration of labor, increase stress hormones, and affect maternal and new-born related outcomes. This study examined the effectiveness of combined breathing exercises, foot reflexology, and massage (BRM) interventions on labor pain, anxiety, labor duration, stress hormone levels, maternal satisfaction, maternal vital signs, and the new-born's APGAR scores.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

This single-blind-parallel randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at the Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH), Makkah, Saudi Arabia, by recruiting primigravidae aged 20 to 35 years, without any medical complications, and who were block-randomized at six-centimeter cervical dilation and stratified by intramuscular pethidine. The intervention is BRM compared to standard care. The labor pain was measured via present behavioral intensity (PBI) and visual analogue scale (VAS), and the anxiety was measured via Anxiety Assessment Scale for Pregnant Women in Labor (AASPWL). The secondary outcomes were duration of labor, maternal stress hormone levels, maternal vital signs, maternal satisfaction, fetal heart rate, and APGAR scores. All outcomes were measured at multiple time-points during and after contraction at baseline, during BRM intervention, at 60, 120, and 180 minutes post-intervention. Generalized linear mixed models were used to estimate the intervention effects over time.

RESULTS

A total of 225 participants were randomized for the control (n = 112) and intervention group (113). BRM lowered the labor pain intensity at 60 minutes after intervention during (1.3 vs 3.5, F = 102.5, p < 0.001) and after contraction (0.4 vs 2.4, F = 63.6, p < 0.001) and also lowered anxiety (2.9 vs 4.2, F = 80.4, p < 0.001). BRM correspondingly lowered adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) (133 vs 209 pg/mL, p < 0.001), cortisol (1231 vs 1360 nmol/mL, p = 0.003), and oxytocin (159 vs 121 pg/mL, p < 0.001). It also shortened the labor duration (165 vs 333 minutes, p < 0.001), improved vital signs, which resulted in higher APGAR scores, and increased maternal satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

The labor unit management could consider adopting BRM as one of the non-pharmacological analgesia for healthy women in labor.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN87414969, registered 3 May 2019.

Development of and Experiences With an Informational Website on Early Labor: Qualitative User Involvement Study

Background

The period of regular contractions before 4 cm of cervical dilatation is often referred to as the latent phase or early labor. Women find it challenging to prepare for and cope with this phase of labor, and easily accessed web-based information from reliable sources may be useful in this preparation.

Objective

The aim of this study is to describe the development of a Norwegian website, Latens.no, for people seeking information on early labor and to explore users’ experiences with the website to increase its user-friendliness.

Methods

We developed a website using an iterative process involving a multidisciplinary research team, health personnel, users, a graphic designer, and an expert in software development. We explored the website’s user-friendliness using semistructured individual interviews and the think-aloud method. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. We then analyzed the participants’ feedback on the website.

Results

Participants included women who had recently given birth to their first baby (n=2), women who were pregnant with their first baby (n=4), and their partners (n=2). Results from participants’ experiences completing tasks included positive feedback related to the content of Latens.no, positive feedback related to the website’s design, and suggestions for improvement. Participants wanted to find information on early labor on the internet. Moreover, they found the information on the website relevant, trustworthy, and easy to read, and the design was attractive and easy to use. Overall, the participants performed the tasks easily, with few clicks and minimal effort.

Conclusions

The think-aloud method, while performing tasks, allowed for detailed feedback. The participants confirmed the user-friendliness of the website but at the same time provided information enabling improvement. We expect that changes made based on this user-centered design study will further increase the usability and acceptability of Latens.no.

Contemporary duration of spontaneous labor and association with maternal characteristics: A French national population-based study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to describe labor duration of women managed with current obstetric practices in a French national population-based cohort and to assess the association of age and BMI on this duration.

METHODS

All women in the French perinatal survey of 2016 with a singleton cephalic fetus, delivering at term after a spontaneous labor were included. Duration of labor was defined as time between admission to the labor ward and birth. Duration of total labor and first and second stage of labor were described. Then, duration of labor was estimated according to maternal age and BMI, using Kaplan-Meier's method and compared with the log-rank test after stratification on parity. Intrapartum cesarean birth was considered as a censoring event. Multivariable modeling was performed using Cox's proportional hazard's method.

RESULTS

Data of 3120 nulliparous and 4385 multiparous women were analyzed. Median labor duration was 6.1 hours ([5th; 95th percentile]) [1.4; 12.6] and 3.1 hours [0.3; 8.5] in nulliparous and multiparous women. Multivariable Cox analysis showed no independent association of maternal age and duration of labor. Nulliparous obese women had significantly lower odds of having a shorter labor than women with a BMI < 25 kg/m² , HR: 0.75; 95% CI [0.64-0.88], but BMI was not associated with labor duration in multiparous women.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides important information for both women and care practitioners on what to expect when entering the labor ward. There appears to be little association between maternal characteristics and labor duration, with the exception of BMI in nulliparous women.

The association between longer durations of the latent phase of labor and subsequent perinatal processes and outcomes among midwifery patients

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between the duration of the latent phase of labor and subsequent processes and outcomes.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of prospectively collected data among 1,189 women with low-risk pregnancies and spontaneous labor.

RESULTS

Longer latent phase duration was associated with labor dystocia (eg, nulliparous ≥ mean [compared with < mean] aOR 3.95 [2.70-5.79]; multiparous ≥ mean [compared with < mean] aOR 5.45 [3.43-8.65]), interventions to ameliorate dystocia, and epidurals to cope or rest (eg, oxytocin augmentation: nulliparous > 80th% [compared with < 80th%] aOR 6.39 [4.04-10.12]; multiparous ≥ 80th% [compared with < 80th%] aOR 6.35 [3.79-10.64]). Longer latent phase duration was also associated with longer active phase and second stage. There were no associations between latent phase duration and risk for cesarean delivery or postpartum hemorrhage in a practice setting with relatively low rates of primary cesarean. Newborns born to multiparous women with latent phase of labor durations at and beyond the 80th% were more frequently admitted to the NICU (≥80th% [compared with < 80th%] aOR 2.7 [1.22-5.84]); however, two-thirds of these NICU admissions were likely for observation only.

CONCLUSIONS

Longer duration of the spontaneous latent phase of labor among women with low-risk pregnancies may signal longer total labor processes, leading to an increase in diagnosis of dystocia, interventions to manage dystocia, and epidural use. Apart from multiparous neonatal NICU admission, no other maternal or child morbidity outcomes were elevated with longer duration of the latent phase of labor.

Does prolonged labor affect the birth experience and subsequent wish for cesarean section among first-time mothers? A quantitative and qualitative analysis of a survey from Norway

Background

Prolonged labor might contribute to a negative birth experience and influence first-time mothers’ attitudes towards future pregnancies. Previous studies have not adjusted for possible confounding factors, such as operative delivery, induction and postpartum hemorrhage. We aimed to determine the impact of prolonged labor on birth experience and a wish for cesarean section in subsequent pregnancies.

Methods

A survey including the validated “Childbirth Experience Questionnaire”. First-time mothers giving birth between 2012 and 2014 at a Norwegian university hospital participated. Data from deliveries were collected. Regression analysis and thematic content analysis were performed.

Results

459 (71%) women responded. Women with labor duration > 12 h had significantly lower scores on two out of four sub-items of the questionnaire: own capacity (p = 0.040) and perceived safety (p = 0.023).

Other factors contributing to a negative experience were:

Cesarean section vs vaginal birth: own capacity (p = 0.001) and perceived safety (p = 0.007). Operative vaginal vs spontaneous birth: own capacity (p = 0.001), perceived safety (p < 0.001) and participation (p = 0.047).

Induced vs spontaneous start: own capacity (p = 0.039) and participation (p = 0.050). Postpartum hemorrhage ≥500 ml vs < 500 ml: perceived safety (p = 0.002) and participation (p = 0.031).

In the unadjusted analysis, prolonged labor more than doubled the risk (odds ratio (OR) 2.66, 95%CI 1.42–4.99) of a subsequent wish for cesarean delivery. However, when adjustments were made for mode of delivery and induction, emergency cesarean section (OR 8.86,95%CI 3.85–20.41) and operative vaginal delivery (OR 3.05, 95%CI 1.46–6.38) remained the only factors significantly increasing the probability of wanting a cesarean section in subsequent pregnancies.

The written comments on prolonged labor (n = 46) indicated four main themes:

Difficulties gaining access to the labor ward.

Being left alone during the unexpectedly long, painful early stage of labor.

Stressful operative deliveries and worse pain than imagined.

Lack of support and too little or contradictory information from the staff.

Conclusions

Women with prolonged labors are at risk of a negative birth experience. Prolonged labor per se did not predict a wish for a cesarean section in a subsequent pregnancy. However, women with long labors more often experience operative delivery, which is a risk factor of a later wish for a cesarean section.

Evaluation of the labour process with serial transperineal ultrasonography and prediction of the type of birth

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to follow the birth process with transperineal ultrasonography (TPU) and predict the delivery method using angle of progression (AOP).

METHODS

The study included 134 patients. The AOP was examined with TPU in the lithotomy position applied at 4-h intervals, not at a time of straining or contractions. The relationship was examined between AOP and those who continued with vaginal delivery, and those who underwent caesarean section delivery.

RESULTS

A total of 122 (91%) patients had vaginal delivery and 12 (9%) patients had cesarean delivery. In patients giving vaginal delivery, progress in AOP was observed in every 4-h measurement, but not in patients with cesarean section. In the ROC analysis, if 70% sensitivity and 75% specificity with AOP degree >132.5°, the patient was expected to have vaginal delivery with a probability of 77.5% (95% CI 0.62-0.93; p=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Rather than repeating digital examinations, the labour process can be monitored with serial TPU and the type of delivery can be predicted. There is a need for further studies for the measurement of AOP with TPU to become a part of clinical practice in the monitoring of the whole labour process.

Management of oxytocin for labour augmentation in relation to mode of birth in Robson group 1

OBJECTIVE

To compare mode of birth in Robson group 1 according to administration of oxytocin for labour augmentation.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective review of 724 medical records from women in Robson group 1 was performed. The outcome measurements were: mode of birth in relation to presence of labour dystocia when initiating augmentation with oxytocin, duration of augmentation with oxytocin, increase of the oxytocin infusion according to recommendations and cervical dilation when initiating augmentation with oxytocin.

SETTING

The review was based on medical records from a medium-sized tertiary level obstetric unit in southern Sweden, with approximately 3700 births per year. Data was collected between January 2017 and October 2017.

MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS

Oxytocin for labour augmentation was used in 64.1% of the births. Oxytocin administered according to the national recommendations was related to a greater likelihood of vaginal birth than when these recommendations were not followed. Only 47.8% of the women who underwent a caesarean section was treated according to recommendations. Receiving augmentation with oxytocin at a later stage of labour was related to a greater likelihood of a vaginal birth. The total time treated with oxytocin was significantly longer in women who had an assisted vaginal birth or a caesarean section than those who had a vaginal birth with augmentation.

KEY CONCLUSIONS

Oxytocin for labour augmentation was over-used in Robson group 1. Oxytocin early in labour, a long duration of stimulation with oxytocin and a slower increase of the infusion than recommended had a relationship with caesarean section.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

Due to risks for adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes when using oxytocin for labour augmentation, caregivers should implement strict protocols for its use. According to a high use of oxytocin there is a need to describe women's experiences of labour augmentation in labour dystocia but also when received despite normal labour progress.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes following a prolonged second stage of labor: A meta-analysis of observational studies

Several articles investigated the impact of prolonged second stage of labor on maternal and neonatal outcomes; however, strict consensus is still lacking. The purpose of the present meta-analysis is to investigate risk factors that contribute to the pathophysiology of prolonged labor as well as effect sizes of maternal and neonatal morbidity. We searched Medline, Scopus, Clinicaltrials.gov, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL and Google Scholar database. Observational studies (prospective and retrospective) were considered eligible for inclusion in the present meta-analysis. To minimize the possibility of article losses we avoided language, country and date restrictions. Meta-analysis was performed with the RevMan 5.3 and secondary analysis with Rstudio. Overall, 13 studies were included in the present systematic review that comprised 337.845 parturient. Prolonged second stage was associated with higher odds of postpartum hemorrhage, chorioamnionitis, endometritis, postpartum fever and obstetric anal sphincter injury. Persistent occiput posterior position and shoulder dystocia were also more prevalent compared to women with normal duration of the second stage. The need for admission to the neonatal intensive care unit was higher as well as the risk of developing neonatal sepsis. On the other hand, the odds of perinatal death were comparable among cases with prolonged and normal duration of the second stage. The results of the present meta-analysis clearly indicate that deliveries following a prolonged second stage of labor are at increased risk of maternal and neonatal complications. The presented effect estimates can be used in current clinical practice during patient counseling.

Medication used in Denmark in the latent phase of labor - Do we know what we are doing?

OBJECTIVE

To describe the various combinations of medication used in Denmark in the latent phase of labor (i.e. for therapeutic rest) and to estimate the frequency of use.

METHODS

An informal e-mail survey based on personal information from Danish midwives or staff obstetricians. The main outcome measures were type and dosage of medications used individually or in combination ("cocktail") for therapeutic rest in Danish delivery wards during the latent phase of labor and also the frequency of their use.

RESULTS

All twenty-one delivery wards in Denmark participated in the survey. The types and dosages of medication varied substantially. Two delivery wards used prescriptions on morphine with no other medication for therapeutic rest. The remaining 19/21 delivery wards (90%) used a standard "cocktail" with two to four different types of medications; 19/21 wards (90%) used a mild analgesic (paracetamol), 17/21 (81%) used anxiolytics/hypnotics, and 14/21 (64%) wards used a strong analgesic (opioid) in their basic cocktail. Ten delivery wards (48%) combined an opioid, a sedative, and paracetamol in their basic cocktail. Between 7% and 21% of all pregnant women were given a cocktail.

CONCLUSION

In a small country, we found considerable national variation in the medication or combinations of medication used in the latent phase of labor, and polypharmacy was standard in the majority of the delivery wards.

Induction of labor compared to expectant management in term nulliparas with a latent phase of labor of more than 8 hours: a randomized trial

Background

Prolonged latent phase of labor is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Preliminary data indicate that labor induction for prolonged latent phase may reduce cesarean delivery. We performed a study powered to Cesarean delivery to evaluate labor induction compared to expectant management in full term nulliparas hospitalized for persistent contractions but non-progressive to established labor after an overnight stay.

Methods

From 2015 and 2017, nulliparas, ≥ 39 weeks’ gestation with prolonged latent phase of labor (persistent contractions after overnight hospitalization > 8 h), cervical dilation ≤3 cm, intact membranes and reassuring cardiotocogram were recruited. Participants were randomized to immediate induction of labor (with vaginal dinoprostone or amniotomy or oxytocin as appropriate) or expectant management (await labor for at least 24 h unless indicated intervention as directed by care provider). Primary outcome measure was Cesarean delivery.

Results

Three hundred eighteen women were randomized (159 to each arm). Data from 308 participants were analyzed. Cesarean delivery rate was 24.2% (36/149) vs. 23.3%, (37/159) RR 1.0 95% CI 0.7–1.6; P = 0.96 in induction of labor vs. expectant arms. Interval from intervention to delivery was 17.1 ± 9.9 vs. 40.1 ± 19.8 h; P < 0.001, intervention to active labor 9.6 ± 10.2 vs. 29.6 ± 18.5 h; P < 0.001, active labor to delivery 7.6 ± 3.6 vs. 10.5 ± 7.2 h; P < 0.001, intervention to hospital discharge 2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 2.9 ± 1.4 days; P < 0.001 and dinoprostone use was 19.5% (29/149) vs. 8.2% (13/159) RR 2.4 95% CI 1.3–4.4; P = 0.01 in IOL compared with expectant arms respectively. Intrapartum oxytocin use, epidural analgesia and uterine hyperstimulation syndrome, postpartum hemorrhage, patient satisfaction on allocated intervention, during labor and delivery and baby outcome were not significantly different across trial arms.

Conclusions

Induction of labor did not reduce Cesarean delivery rates but intervention to delivery and to hospital discharge durations are shorter. Patient satisfaction scores were similar. Induction of labor for prolonged latent phase of labor can be performed without apparent detriment to expedite delivery.

Trial registration

Registered in Malaysia National Medical Research Register (NMRR-15-16-23,886) on 6 January 2015 and the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number registry, registration number ISRCTN14099170 on 5 Nov 2015.

Describing latent phase duration and associated characteristics among 1281 low-risk women in spontaneous labor

BACKGROUND

Recent research suggests that latent phase of labor may terminate at 6 rather than 4 centimeters of cervical dilation. The objectives of this study were to: (a) characterize duration of the latent phase of labor among term, low-risk, United States women in spontaneous labor using the women's self-identified onset; and (b) quantify associations between demographic and maternal/newborn health characteristics and the duration of the latent phase.

METHODS

This prospective study (n = 1281) described the duration of the latent phase of labor in hours, stratified by parity at the mean, median, and 80th, 90th, and 95th percentiles. The duration of the latent phase was compared for each characteristic using t tests or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and regression models that controlled for confounders.

RESULTS

In this sample of predominantly white, healthy women, duration of the latent phase of labor was longer than described in previous studies: The median duration was 9.0 hours and mean duration was 11.8 hours in nulliparous women. The median duration was 6.8 hours and mean duration was 9.3 hours in multiparous women. Among nulliparous women, longer duration was seen in women whose fetus was in a malposition. Among multiparous women, longer durations were noted in women with chorioamnionitis and those who gave birth between 41 and 41 + 6 weeks' gestation (vs between 40 and 40 + 6 weeks' gestation).

CONCLUSIONS

The latent phase of labor may be longer than previously estimated. Contemporary estimates of latent phase of labor duration will help women and providers accurately anticipate, prepare, and cope during spontaneous labor.

The transition from latent to active labor and adverse obstetrical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Recommendations on preventing primary cesarean delivery removed the previously defined time limits for latent labor (defined as ending at 6 cm) and urged clinicians to avoid cesarean delivery for labor abnormalities in the latent phase. However, relatively little is known about the implications of labor curve abnormalities from 4 to 6 cm and subsequent outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between length of time for dilation from 4 to 6 cm, delivery outcomes, and maternal and neonatal morbidity.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study of patients at ≥37 weeks presenting in spontaneous or induced labor with a nonanomalous living singleton in vertex presentation. Patients with a history of cesarean delivery or who did not achieve 6-cm dilation were excluded. We used interval censored regression to determine the 90th percentile for dilation time from 4 to 6 cm and used logistic regression to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for adverse outcomes for patients above this cutoff percentile compared with those at or below. Analyses were adjusted for obesity, nulliparity, race, hypertension, diabetes, and type of labor (induced vs spontaneous/augmented). Outcomes included cesarean delivery, maternal morbidity (composite of postpartum fever, wound infection, hemorrhage), and neonatal morbidity (composite of neonatal death, hypothermic therapy, mechanical ventilation, respiratory distress, meconium aspiration syndrome, seizure, or treatment of sepsis). In addition, we created receiver operator characteristic curves to predict cesarean delivery, and maternal and neonatal morbidity based on time to dilate from 4 to 6 cm. The cutoff for time for each outcome was identified using the Youden index to maximize sensitivity and specificity, and test characteristics were computed.

RESULTS

There were 7355 patients eligible for analysis, 728 (10%) had dilation times from 4 to 6 cm >10.3 hours, which was the 90th percentile, and 6627 (90%) had dilation times ≤10.3 hours. Having dilation time from 4 to 6 cm above the 90th percentile (10.3 hours) was associated with cesarean delivery (adjusted odds ratio, 2.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.67-2.52), composite maternal morbidity (adjusted odds ratio, 1.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-2.00), and composite neonatal morbidity (adjusted odds ratio 1.92; 95% confidence interval 1.52-2.4). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve for predicting cesarean delivery was 0.73 (95% confidence interval, 0.71-0.75). The test characteristics for the cutoff of 9.75 hours were sensitivity 68.3% (95% confidence interval, 64.8%-71.7%), specificity 66.2% (95% confidence interval, 55.0%-67.3%), positive predictive value 18.5% (95% confidence interval, 17.1%-20.0%), and negative predictive value 94.9% (95% confidence interval, 94.2%-95.5%). For composite maternal morbidity, the cutoff was 6.98 hours and the area under the curve was 0.62 (95% confidence interval, 0.59-0.65), whereas for composite neonatal morbidity it was 5.5 hours (area under the curve 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.67-0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients whose dilation time from 4 to 6 cm exceeds the 90th percentile have increased odds of cesarean delivery and postpartum complications. Prolonged dilation time has moderate predictive ability for adverse outcomes. Future studies should investigate at what point, if any, intervention is warranted during this period to reduce these risks.

Women's labour experiences and quality of care in relation to a prolonged latent phase of labour

AIM

To describe primiparous and multiparous women's labour experiences and their perception of quality of intrapartum care, in relation to background characteristics and length of latent phase of labour prior to admittance to labour ward.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING

A middle-sized hospital in a rural county in western part of Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

Primiparous and multiparous women, both low-risk and risk, with a spontaneous onset of labour after gestational week 37+0 were included. In total, n = 1193 women were invited, and n = 757 responded the questionnaire, n = 342 primiparous and n = 415 multiparous women.

METHODS

The Intrapartal-specific Quality from Patient Perspective (QPP-I), with responses on perceived reality and subjective importance, was used for data collection. QPP-I covers ten factors of quality of care. Background characteristics, length of latent phase of labour, global items about labour experience and items regarding feelings during labour and birth were included. Data were analysed with descriptive and analytic statistics.

FINDINGS

All factors in QPP-I were rated higher for subjective importance than perceived reality, except for information about selfcare, for both primi- and multiparous women. Labour experience, perceived reality of quality of care, and feelings were related to length of the latent phase of labour. Primiparous women with a prolonged latent phase (>18 h) had significantly lower scores regarding six out of ten QPP-I factors (PR); Information procedures, Information self-care, Commitment (midwives), Commitment (enrolled nurses), Midwives present, and Partner/ significant others. They scored lower on Experience birth as normal and Safe during labour and birth. The felt less proud and felt more ignored by professionals. Multiparous women with a prolonged latent phase of labour scored significantly lower on one QPP-I factor, Commitment (midwives). They also scored lower on Control over the situation and felt less safe during labour and birth.

KEY CONCLUSION

Women's perception of quality of intrapartum care, the birth experience and feelings are related to length of the latent phase of labour. Women perceive quality of intrapartum care as being lower than its subjective importance.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

A prolonged latent phase of labour can be regarded as a risk factor for a more negative birthing experience.

Association of sedentary time and physical activity during pregnancy with maternal and neonatal birth outcomes. The GESTAFIT Project

AIM

(a) To analyse the association of objectively measured sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA) during early second trimester of pregnancy with maternal and neonatal birth outcomes; (b) to explore if ST and PA differ between women with vaginal or caesarean section deliveries.

METHODS

Ninety-four Caucasian pregnant women (32.9 ± 4.6 years old) participated in this prospective longitudinal study. Triaxial accelerometers were used to assess ST and PA intensity levels for seven consecutive days during second trimester of pregnancy. Birth data were collected from the obstetric medical records. Umbilical cord arterial and venous blood gas (pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide and oxygen, and oxygen saturation) were analysed after birth.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounders, greater ST was associated with higher arterial and venous cord blood partial pressure of carbon dioxide and more acidic arterial and venous pH (all, P < 0.01). Moderate PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), total PA and steps per day were positively associated with arterial cord blood oxygen saturation (all P < 0.05). Steps per day were inversely associated with gestational age at birth (P < 0.01), and duration of first stage of labor (P < 0.05). Total and light PA were associated with a more alkaline pH in umbilical vein (all, P < 0.01). Vigorous PA was inversely associated with the Apgar score (P < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in ST and PA levels between women with vaginal and women with caesarean section deliveries (all, P > 0.10).

CONCLUSION

Increasing PA and decreasing ST during pregnancy might promote better maternal and neonatal birth markers.

Early labour experience questionnaire: Psychometric testing and women's experiences in a Swedish setting

OBJECTIVE

(a) to psychometrically test the Early Labour Experience Questionnaire (ELEQ) among both primi- and multiparous women giving birth in a Swedish setting, and (b) to describe and compare their experiences during early labour in relation to background characteristics.

DESIGN

a cross-sectional study.

SETTING

a county in Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

primi- and multiparous women with a spontaneous onset of labour after gestational week 37 + 0. In total, n = 1193 women were invited, and n = 754 responded the questionnaire, with a final total of n = 344 primi and n = 410 multiparous women.

METHODS

the ELEQ was translated with cross-cultural adaptation. The validity was determined using exploratory factor analysis with principal axis factoring analyses. Reliability was estimated from the internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha. The relationship between the questionnaire and the demographic characteristics of the participating women were analysed using ANOVA and t-test.

FINDINGS

an explorative factor analysis showed a three-factor solution for primiparas women (SWE-ELEQ-PP) consist of 23 items and a stable factor structure that explained 49.2% of the total variance with sufficient reliability coefficients (0.81-0.86). A four-factor solution for multiparous women (SWE-ELEQ-MP) consist of 22 items, with 52.62% of the total variance explained and with adequate internal consistency reliability coefficients (0.77-0.86) for three factors and relatively low stability (0.62) for the fourth factor with two items. Primiparous women scored significantly higher on items about feeling confused, and significantly lower on some items measuring emotional wellbeing and perceptions of midwifery care compared to multiparous women. Primiparous women with longer early labour (>18 h), scored significantly lower on the perceptions of midwifery care. Primi- and multiparous women who were dissatisfied with their telephone conversation or with not being admitted during early labour, scored significantly lower on emotional wellbeing, higher regarding emotional distress, and significantly lower about perceptions of midwifery care.

KEY CONCLUSIONS

the SWE-ELEQ-PP and SWE-ELEQ-MP are considered valid questionnaires for use in a Swedish setting. Differences exist between parity and the factor structure and experiences in early labour vary. Women less content with early labour management decisions rated perceived midwifery care lower regardless of parity.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

the questionnaire can be used to evaluate early labour care in a Swedish setting. The result suggests that differences according to parity exist and should be addressed when managing early labour care and a more individualised approach requires considerations.