Reasons for rejecting hormonal contraception in Western countries: A systematic review

Over the past decade, women in Western countries have taken to various social media platforms to share their dissatisfactory experiences with hormonal contraception, which may be pills, patches, rings, injectables, implants or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs). These online testimonials have been denounced as spreading "hormonophobia", i.e. an excessive fear of hormones based on irrational causes such as an overestimation of health risks associated with their use, that was already aroused by the recurring media controversies over hormonal contraception. In order to move toward a reproductive justice framework, we propose to study the arguments that women and men (as partners of female users) recently put forward against hormonal contraception to see whether they are related to hormonophobia. The aim of this article is to conduct a systematic review of the recent scientific literature in order to construct an evidence-based typology of reasons for rejecting hormonal contraception, in a continuum perspective from complaints to choosing not to use it, cited by women and men in Western countries in a recent time. The published literature was systematically searched using PubMed and the database from the French National Institute for Demographic Studies (Ined). A total of 42 articles were included for full-text analysis. Eight main categories emerged as reasons for rejecting hormonal contraception: problems related to physical side effects; altered mental health; negative impact on sexuality; concerns about future fertility; invocation of nature; concerns about menstruation; fears and anxiety; and the delegitimization of the side effects of hormonal contraceptives. Thus, arguments against hormonal contraception appeared complex and multifactorial. Future research should examine the provider-patient relationship, the gender bias of hormonal contraception and demands for naturalness in order to understand how birth control could better meet the needs and expectations of women and men in Western countries today.

In the era of humanitarian crisis, young women continue to die in childbirth in Mali

Maternal mortality occurs mostly in contexts of poverty and health system collapse. Mali has a very high maternal mortality rate and this extremely high mortality rate is due in part to longstanding constraints in maternal health services. The central region has been particularly affected by the humanitarian crisis in recent years, and maternal health has been aggravated by the conflict. Sominé Dolo Hospital is located in Mopti, central region. In the last decade, a high number of pregnant or delivering women have died in this hospital.

We conducted a retrospective and exhaustive study of maternal deaths occurring in Mopti hospital. Between 2007 and 2019, 420 women died, with an average of 32 deaths per year. The years 2014–2015 and the last 2 years have been particularly deadly, with 40 and 50 deaths in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The main causes were hypertensive disorders/eclampsia and haemorrhage. 80% of these women’s deaths were preventable. Two major explanations result in these maternal deaths in Sominé Dolo’s hospital: first, a lack of accessible and safe blood, and second, the absence of a reference and evacuation referral system, all of which are aggravated by security issues in and around Mopti.

Access to quality hospital care is in dire need in the Mopti region. There is an urgent need for a safe blood collection system and free of charge for pregnant women. We also strongly recommend that the referral/evacuation system be reinvigorated, and that universal health coverage be strengthened.

Magnitude and correlates of caesarean section in urban and rural areas: A multivariate study in Vietnam

Caesarean section (CS) can prevent maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. However, it involves risks and high costs that can be a burden, especially in low and middle income countries. The aim of this study is to assess its magnitude and correlates among women of reproductive age in the urban and rural areas of Vietnam. We analyzed microdata from the national Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in 2014 by using a representative sample of households at the national level in both urban and rural areas. A total of 1,350 women who delivered in institutional settings in the two years preceding the survey were included. Frequency and percentage distributions of the variables were performed. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were undertaken to identify the factors associated with CS. Odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to ascertain the direction and strength of the associations. The overall CS rate among the women who delivered in healthcare facilities in Vietnam has rapidly increased and reached a high level (29.2%). After controlling for significant characteristics, living in urban areas doubles the likelihood of undergoing a CS (OR = 1.98; 95% CI 1.48 to 2.67). Maternal age at delivery over 35 years is a major positive correlate of CS. Beyond this common phenomenon, different distinct lines of socioeconomic and demographic cleavage operate in urban compared with rural areas. The differences regarding the correlates of CS according to the place of residence suggest that specific measures should be taken in each setting to allow women to access childbirth services that are appropriate to their needs.

Reasons for routine episiotomy: A mixed-methods study in a large maternity hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

First documented in 1741, the practice of episiotomy substantially increased worldwide during the 20th century. However, research shows that episiotomy is not effective in reducing severe perineal trauma and may be harmful. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a study in 2013-14 on why obstetricians and midwives in a large maternity hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, still do routine episiotomies. The study included the extent of the practice, based on medical records; a retrospective analysis of the delivery notes of a random sample of 365 patients; and 22 in-depth interviews with obstetricians, midwives and recently delivered women. Of the 365 women, 345 (94.5%, 95% CI: 91.7-96.6) had had an episiotomy. Univariate analysis showed that nulliparous women underwent episiotomy more frequently than multiparous women (OR 7.1, 95% CI 2.0-24.7). The reasons given for this practice by midwives and obstetricians were: fear of perineal tears, the strong belief that Asian women have a shorter and harder perineum than others, lack of time in overcrowded delivery rooms, and the belief that Cambodian women would be able to have a tighter and prettier vagina through this practice. A restrictive episiotomy policy and information for pregnant women about birthing practices through antenatal classes should be implemented as soon as possible.

Removing user fees to improve access to caesarean delivery: a quasi-experimental evaluation in western Africa

INTRODUCTION

Mali and Benin introduced a user fee exemption policy focused on caesarean sections in 2005 and 2009, respectively. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of this policy on service utilisation and neonatal outcomes. We focus specifically on whether the policy differentially impacts women by education level, zone of residence and wealth quintile of the household.

METHODS

We use a difference-in-differences approach using two other western African countries with no fee exemption policies as the comparison group (Cameroon and Nigeria). Data were extracted from Demographic and Health Surveys over four periods between the early 1990s and the early 2000s. We assess the impact of the policy on three outcomes: caesarean delivery, facility-based delivery and neonatal mortality.

RESULTS

We analyse 99 800 childbirths. The free caesarean policy had a positive impact on caesarean section rates (adjusted OR=1.36 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.66; P≤0.01), particularly in non-educated women (adjusted OR=2.71; 95% CI 1.70 to 4.32; P≤0.001), those living in rural areas (adjusted OR=2.02; 95% CI 1.48 to 2.76; P≤0.001) and women in the middle-class wealth index (adjusted OR=3.88; 95% CI 1.77 to 4.72; P≤0.001). The policy contributes to the increase in the proportion of facility-based delivery (adjusted OR=1.68; 95% CI 1.48 to 1.89; P≤0.001) and may also contribute to the decrease of neonatal mortality (adjusted OR=0.70; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.85; P≤0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to evaluate the impact of a user fee exemption policy focused on caesarean sections on maternal and child health outcomes with robust methods. It provides evidence that eliminating fees for caesareans benefits both women and neonates in sub-Saharan countries.

How is women's demand for caesarean section measured? A systematic literature review

Background

Caesarean section rates are increasing worldwide, and since the 2000s, several researchers have investigated women’s demand for caesarean sections.

Question

The aim of this article was to review and summarise published studies investigating caesarean section demand and to describe the methodologies, outcomes, country characteristics and country income levels in these studies.

Methods

This is a systematic review of studies published between 2000 and 2017 in French and English that quantitatively measured women’s demand for caesarean sections. We carried out a systematic search using the Medline database in PubMed.

Findings

The search strategy identified 390 studies, 41 of which met the final inclusion criteria, representing a total sample of 3 774 458 women. We identified two different study designs, i.e., cross-sectional studies and prospective cohort studies, that are commonly used to measure social demand for caesarean sections. Two different types of outcomes were reported, i.e., the preferences of pregnant or non-pregnant women regarding the method of childbirth in the future and caesarean delivery following maternal request. No study measured demand for caesarean section during the childbirth process. All included studies were conducted in middle- (n = 24) and high-income countries (n = 17), and no study performed in a low-income country was found.

Discussion

Measuring caesarean section demand is challenging, and the structural violence leading to demand for caesarean section during childbirth while in the labour ward remains invisible. In addition, the caesarean section demand in low-income countries remains unclear due to the lack of studies conducted in these countries.

Conclusion

We recommend conducting prospective cohort studies to describe the social construction of caesarean section demand. We also recommend conducting studies in low-income countries because demand for caesarean sections in these countries is rarely investigated.

Do free caesarean section policies increase inequalities in Benin and Mali?

BACKGROUND

Benin and Mali introduced user fee exemption policies focused on caesarean sections (C-sections) in 2005 and 2009, respectively. These policies had a positive impact on access to C-sections and facility based deliveries among all women, but the impact on socioeconomic inequality is still highly uncertain. The objective of this study was to observe whether there was an increase or a decrease in urban/rural and socioeconomic inequalities in access to C-sections and facility based deliveries after the free C-section policy was introduced.

METHODS

We used data from three consecutive Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS): 2001, 2006 and 2011-2012 in Benin and 2001, 2006 and 2012-13 in Mali. We evaluated trends in inequality in terms of two outcomes: C-sections and facility based deliveries. Adjusted odds ratios were used to estimate whether the distributions of C-sections and facility based deliveries favoured the least advantaged categories (rural, non-educated and poorest women) or the most advantaged categories (urban, educated and richest women). Concentration curves were used to observe the degree of wealth-related inequality in access to C-sections and facility based deliveries.

RESULTS

We analysed 47,302 childbirths (23,266 in Benin and 24,036 in Mali). In Benin, we found no significant difference in access to C-sections between urban and rural women or between educated and non-educated women. However, the richest women had greater access to C-sections than the poorest women. There was no significant change in these inequalities in terms of access to C-sections and facility based deliveries after introduction of the free C-section policy. In Mali, we found a reduction in education-related inequalities in access to C-sections after implementation of the policy (p-value = 0.043). Inequalities between urban and rural areas had already decreased prior to implementation of the policy, but wealth-related inequalities were still present.

CONCLUSIONS

Urban/rural and socioeconomic inequalities in C-section access did not change substantially after the countries implemented free C-section policies. User fee exemption is not enough. We recommend switching to mechanisms that combine both a universal approach and targeted action for vulnerable populations to address this issue and ensure equal health care access for all individuals.

Why are caesarean section rates so high in facilities in Mali and Benin?

OBJECTIVE

To assess new estimates of caesarean section (c-section) rates in facilities in two sub-Saharan countries using the Robson classification.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective study. Workshops were organized in Mali and Benin in 2017 to train health care professionals in the use of the Robson classification. Nine health facilities in Mali and Benin were selected to participate in the study. Data for deliveries performed in 2014, 2015, and 2016 were included.

RESULTS

A total of 12,472 deliveries were included. The overall c-section rate was high in facilities in both countries: 31.0% in Mali and 43.9% in Benin. Women classified as high-risk (groups 6-10) were small relative contributors to the overall c-section rate (19.3% in Mali and 25.3% in Benin), while low-risk women (groups 1-4) were high relative contributors (55.4% in Mali and 45.2% in Benin). C-section rates in women who had undergone a previous c-section were especially high in both countries (84.0% in Mali; 82.5% in Benin). This group was the largest contributor to the overall c-section rates in both countries.

CONCLUSIONS

We found high c-section rates in facilities in Mali and Benin, particularly for low-risk women and for women with a previous c-section. Further investigations should be carried out to understand why the c-section rates are so high in these facilities. Strategies must be implemented to avoid unnecessary c-sections, which potentially lead to further complications, particularly in countries with high fertility rates.

State of midwifery research in France

OBJECTIVE

We describe French midwives' experience and perception of research and publication as well as their publications in scientific and professional journals.

DESIGN

We conducted an online cross sectional survey of midwives from June to November 2016; complemented by a bibliometric analysis of their publications in any language.

SETTING

This study was conducted in France, where it is necessary to question some midwifery and obstetrical practices.

PARTICIPANTS

146 midwives working/residing in France or holding/studying in France for a PhD or a Masters' degree at the time of the study; or having already published articles in any scientific or professional journal.

FINDINGS

Of the 146 eligible midwives, 91.8% were female; 15 (10.3%) had a PhD degree, 26 (17.8%) and 80 (54.8%) were preparing a PhD and a Master's degree, respectively. A total of 140 midwives (95.8%) were working in midwifery and 54 (37.0%) respondents reported having already participated in midwifery research programs. Publication experience was reported by 73 midwives, including 26 (17.8%) who have published at least one article on midwifery in a journal accessible online and peerreviewed. 97.2% of midwives with publication experience consider it useful to publish but 75.7% consider that it is a difficult process. Lack of time, not mastering scientific writing and English language are their main barriers to publication. We identified 218 articles published by these midwives before January 2016, including 180 (82.6%) on maternal and perinatal health. Of their 134 unique articles on midwifery accessible online, 77 (57.5%) dealt with bio-medical topics, 49 (36.6%) with health system issues, and 17 (12.7%) used human and social sciences approaches. Pregnancy and birth were the two most studied reproductive life phases. Eighty-nine (28.4%) of these 314 articles were about midwifery practices or interventions. Since 1990, 93 articles have been published on midwifery in peer-reviewed journals, including 32 in the French language. The number of publications increased significantly with time with a progression coefficient at +1.18% per year, in particular in scientific journals (+0.78% per year).

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATION

We evidenced that even though midwives in France have a still limited experience of research, and few of them have completed a PhD degree, or receive a salary for doing research, they publish an increasing number of scientific articles on midwifery topics. However, very few research programs in France examine aspects of midwifery. This scarcity is a major barrier to the involvement of midwives in research. Scientific publications about midwifery in French language are limited mainly due to the lack of adequate and specialized journal in French. However, publishing in French would facilitate the access to knowledge and evidence of midwifery practitioners in Frenchspeaking countries, including French-speaking Africa, where maternal mortality ratios can be very high. We suggest and discuss a number of approaches to increase access to scientific knowledge on midwifery in France and French-speaking countries.

[Gynecological and obstetric violence: the construction of a political and public health issue]

The concept of “gynecological and obstetric violence”, which emerged in the early 2000s in Latin America in activist and scientific circles, has been debated since the 2010s in French and European feminist and political circles. We show here how this concept is defined, what realities and practices it covers and by whom and in what context it is used in the public space in France and internationally, and in academic research. This concept allows for a new approach to medical care in gynecology and obstetrics that takes into account the experiences, both objective and subjective, of women and medical practices that are now technical, sometimes impersonal and disrespectful. Although there is a growing body of work in the social sciences that uses this conceptual approach, it focuses more on childbirth and less on strictly gynecological medical care.

Caesarean section in Benin and Mali: increased recourse to technology due to suffering and under-resourced facilities

In line with policies to combat maternal mortality, the medicalization of childbirth is increasing in low-income countries, while access to healthcare services remains difficult for many women. High caesarean section rates have been documented recently in hospitals in Mali and Benin, illustrating an a-priori paradoxical situation, compared with low caesarean section rates in the population. Through a qualitative approach, this article aims to describe the practice of caesarean section in maternity wards in Bamako and Cotonou. Workshops with obstetricians and midwives; participant observation inside labour rooms; and in-depth interviews with caregivers, patients and policy makers have indicated increased recourse to caesarean section due to women's and caregivers' suffering and under-resourced facilities. Within these procedures, two types of caesarean section were documented: 'maternal distress caesarean section' and 'preventive caesarean section'. The main reasons for these caesarean sections are maternal fear and pain, and a lack of resources. Inadequately resourced facilities lead to staff suffering and ethical breakdowns, and encourage the inappropriate use of technology. The policy of access to free caesarean section procedures exacerbates the issue of non-medically-justified caesarean sections in these countries. The overuse of caesarean section is particularly alarming in countries with high fertility as it constitutes a danger to both mothers and babies in the short and long term. Currently, conditions are in place in Benin and Mali for an increase in non-medically-justified caesarean sections. In the short term, such an increase could constitute a new burden for these two sub-Saharan countries, where maternal mortality is high.

'A caesarean section is like you've never delivered a baby': A mixed methods study of the experience of childbirth among French women

The experience of childbirth has been technologized worldwide, leading to major social changes. In France, childbirth occurs almost exclusively in hospitals. Few studies have been published on the opinions of French women regarding obstetric technology and, in particular, caesarean section. In 2017-2018, we used a mixed methods approach to determine French women's preferences regarding the mode of delivery, and captured their experiences and satisfaction in relation to childbirth in two maternity settings. Of 284 pregnant women, 277 (97.5%) expressed a preference for vaginal birth, while seven (2.5%) women expressed a preference for caesarean section. Vaginal birth was also preferred among 26 women who underwent an in-depth interview. Vaginal birth was perceived as more natural, less risky and less painful, and to favour mother-child bonding. This vision was shared by caregivers. The women who expressed a preference for vaginal birth tended to remain sexually active late in their pregnancy, to find sexual intercourse pleasurable, and to believe that vaginal birth would not enlarge their vagina. A large majority (94.5%) of women who gave birth vaginally were satisfied with their childbirth experience, compared with 24.3% of those who underwent caesarean section. The caring attitude of the caregivers contributed to increasing this satisfaction. The notion of women's 'empowerment' emerged spontaneously in women's discourse in this research: women who gave birth vaginally felt satisfied and empowered. The vision shared by caregivers and women that vaginal birth is a natural process contributes to the stability of caesarean section rates in France.

Radiothérapie et lutte contre les cancers : défis de maintenance de l’unique accélérateur linéaire à l’Hôpital du Mali

Cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing in West Africa. Cancer is a recent discipline in Mali and the means available to treat patients are insufficient. Mali has only one radiotherapy machine for the country and its malfunctions are regularly reported in the media. In order to understand the recurrent dissatisfactions linked to access to radiotherapy in Mali, we retraced the history of this machine and described its functioning. Based on semi-directive interviews with patients’ associations and health professionals involved in cancer care in Bamako, we describe how radiotherapy in Mali reveals global health issues through the intervention of numerous international cooperations. In addition, based on data collection from medical registers and institutional reports, we report that the average time to get a radiotherapy appointment is 3 to 6 months in Mali, but also that the radiotherapy machine has experienced 198 breakdowns between April 3, 2014 and September 24, 2021, which represents more than 54 weeks of cumulative downtime. Radiotherapy is a crucial element in the treatment of cancer and the lack of access to this treatment worsens the vital diagnosis of patients. While the Malian government is committed to universal health coverage reforms, strengthening cancer treatment facilities should also be considered a public health priority for Mali.

Access to oncology care in Mali: a qualitative study on breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in terms of incidence and mortality among women worldwide, including in Africa, and a rapid increase in the number of new cases of breast cancer has recently been observed in sub-Saharan Africa. Oncology is a relatively new discipline in many West African countries, particularly Mali; thus, little is known about the current state of cancer care infrastructure and oncology practices in these countries.

METHODS

To describe the challenges related to access to oncology care in Mali, we used a qualitative approach, following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ). Thirty-eight semistructured interviews were conducted with health professionals treating cancer in Mali (n = 10), women with breast cancer (n = 25), and representatives of associations (n = 3), and 40 participant observations were conducted in an oncology unit in Bamako. We used the theoretical framework on access to health care developed by Levesque et al. a posteriori to organise and analyse the data collected.

RESULTS

Access to oncology care is partly limited by the current state of Mali's health infrastructure (technical platform failures, repeated strikes in university hospitals, incomplete free health care and the unavailability of medicines) and exacerbated by the security crisis that has been occurring the country since 2012. The lack of specialist doctors, combined with limited screening campaigns and a centralised and fragmented technical platform in Bamako, is particularly detrimental to breast cancer treatment. Women's lack of awareness, lack of information throughout the treatment process, stereotypes and opposition to amputations all play a significant role in their ability to seek and access quality care, leading some women to therapeutically wander and others to want to leave Mali. It also leaves them in debt and jeopardises the future of their children. However, the high level of trust in doctors, the involvement of international actors, the level of social support and the growing influence of civil society on the issue of cancer also represent great current opportunities to fight cancer in Mali.

CONCLUSION

Despite the efforts of successive Malian governments and the commitment of international actors, the provision of health care is still limited in the country, entrenching global inequalities in women's bodies.

Barrier measures implemented in French maternity hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this survey were 1) to describe the changes over time of barrier measures in maternity units, specifically, co-parent visits and women wearing masks in birth rooms, and 2) to identify potential institutional determinants of these barrier measures.

DESIGN

We used an online questionnaire to conduct a descriptive cross-sectional survey from May to July 2021.

SETTING

All districts in mainland France.

PARTICIPANTS

Midwife supervisor of each maternity unit.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcomes were "banning of visits" in the postnatal department during the first lockdown (March-May 2020), and "mandated mask-wearing in birth rooms" during the survey period (May-July 2021); the independent variables were maternity unit characteristics and location in a crisis area. Co-parent visits were considered only during the first lockdown as they were mostly allowed afterwards, and the wearing of masks was studied only during the survey period, as masks were unavailable for the population during the first lockdown.

RESULTS

We obtained 343 responses, i.e., 75.2% of French maternity units. Visits to the postnatal department were forbidden in 39.3% of the maternity units during the first lockdown and in none during the study period. Maternity hospitals with neonatal intensive care units were the most likely to ban co-parent hospital visits (adjusted OR 2.34 [1.12; 4.96]). However, those were the maternity units least likely to encourage or require women to wear masks while pushing (adjusted OR, 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.11-0.77). Maternity units in crisis areas (i.e., with very high case counts) during the first lockdown banned visits significantly more often (adjusted OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.05-2.70).

KEY CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that barrier measures evolved during the course of the pandemic but remained extremely variable between facilities.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Maternity units implemented drastic barrier measures at the beginning of the pandemic but were able to adapt these measures over time. It is now time to learn from this experience to ensure that women and infants are no longer harmed by these measures.

[Moving beyond the ethical tension of caesarean section on maternal request]

INTRODUCTION

In a legal context focused on the right and autonomy of the patient, some women wish to be able to choose their mode of childbirth. As midwives are primary care-givers for pregnant women with a physiological pregnancy, we wanted to find out whether it was ethically acceptable for them to accompany a woman in her decision to have a caesarean section.Purpose of research: This survey is an ancillary study of the CESARIA research program validated by the Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Méditerranée IV and declared to the CNIL. Thirty-seven semi-directive interviews were conducted with midwives and women.

RESULTS

The majority of women and midwives share a vision of childbirth as “natural” and consider the request for caesarean section as a pathology. When formulated, this request places midwives in a situation of ethical tension. On the one hand, midwives wish to refer women to vaginal birth as the norm, and this choice embodies the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. On the other hand, midwives express a desire to respect patient choice and freedom, illustrating the ethical principle of respect for autonomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The ethical issue of caesarean section on demand lies not so much in the decision to accept or not to accept a caesarean section but rather in listening to the request. Taking into consideration a medical indication more broadly than the simple obstetrical indication makes it possible to ethically support these requests while respecting the pregnant woman’s autonomy.

[Childbirth pelvic floor trauma: Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and special situations - CNGOF perineal prevention and protection in obstetrics guidelines]

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether pelvic size and shape, spinal curvature, perineal body length and genital hiatus size are associated with the incidence of childbirth pelvic floor trauma. Special situations, such as obesity, ethnicity and hyperlaxity, will also be studied.

METHODS

A bibliographic research using Pubmed and Cochrane Library databases was conducted until May 2018. Publications in English and French were selected by initial reading of the abstracts. Randomized trials, meta-analyzes, case-control studies and large cohorts were studied in a privileged way.

RESULTS

A pubic arch angle<90° (measured clinically) does not appear to increase the risk of OASIS (Level 3), but appears to be a risk factor for postnatal anal incontinence at short-term, but not at long-term (Level 3). Measurement of pelvic dimensions and the subpubic angle is not recommended to predict OASIS or to choose the mode of delivery for the purpose of protecting the perineum (GradeC). Prenatal measurement of both perineal body (Level 3) and genital hiatus (Level 2) does not predict the incidence of 2nd or 3rd degree OASIS. Therefore, the routine prenatal measurement of the length of the perineal body or the genital hiatus is not recommended for any objective related to perineal protection (Grade C). Levator avulsion, resulting in a widening of the genital hiatus, is potentially a source of long-term pelvic floor dysfunction. Biomechanical models suggest that performing a mediolateral episiotomy and applying the fingers to the posterior perineum at the time of expulsive phase may reduce pelvic floor trauma. Obese women have a longer perineal body (Level 3), and obesity does not seem to increase the risk of OASIS (Level 2). There is no difference between Asian and non-Asian women perineal body (Level 3). No studies have validated that the liberal practice of episiotomy in Asian women reduced the risk of OASIS. It is therefore not recommended to practice an episiotomy for simple ethnic reasons in Asian women (GradeC). Compared to white women, black women do not appear to have an increased risk of OASIS and even appear to have a decreased risk of perineal tears of all stages (Level 2). Ligament hyperlaxity seems to be associated with an increased risk of OASIS (Level 2).

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal assessment of pelvis bone, spine curvature, perineal body and genital hiatus do not allow to predict the incidence of childbirth pelvic floor trauma. Obesity and ethnicity are not risk factors for OASIS.

[Normal childbirth: physiologic labor support and medical procedures. Guidelines of the French National Authority for Health (HAS) with the collaboration of the French College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF) and the French College of Midwives (CNSF) - Intrapartum care for healthy women and non pharmacological approaches for pain management]

OBJECTIVE

To make clinical practice guidelines for intrapartum care for healthy women and non-pharmacologic approaches for pain management.

METHODS

Review of the literature of articles published between January 2000 and September 2017 in English and French language from the Medline database, the Cochrane Library and recommendations from international institutes.

RESULTS

During the initial examination of a pregnant woman, it is recommended to take note of the pregnancy monitoring file and its possible birth plan; perform an anamnesis, inquire about her wishes and physiological and emotional needs; and perform a clinical examination (Consensus agreement). If the woman seems to be in labor, it is recommended to offer a vaginal examination (Consensus agreement). In case of premature rupture of membranes, it is recommended not to systematically perform a vaginal examination if the woman has no painful contractions (Consensus agreement). During the first stage of labor, the surveillance of the woman includes at least: a surveillance of the haemodynamic parameters every four hours; an evaluation of the frequency of uterine contractions every 30minutes and for 10minutes during the active phase; surveillance of spontaneous urination; the proposition of a vaginal examination every two to four hours or before if the patient asks for it, or in case of sign of call (Consensus agreement). During the second stage, it is recommended to use a partograph; to monitor hemodynamic parameters every hour; to evaluate the frequency of uterine contractions every 30minutes and for ten minutes; to monitor and note spontaneous urination; to offer a vaginal examination every hour (Consensus agreement). Whether on admission or during labor, it is recommended to evaluate the pain and offer the patient different ways to relieve it (Consensus agreement). It is recommended that all women have continuous, individual and personalized support, during labor and delivery (grade A); to implement the necessary human and material resources allowing women to change position regularly (Consensus agreement).

CONCLUSION

Routine practices must be abandoned to implement those that are scientifically justified. The management of pain is essential. Every woman should have continuous, individual and personalized support during labor and delivery.

[Perineal prevention and protection in obstetrics: CNGOF Clinical Practice Guidelines (short version)]

INTRODUCTION

The objective of these clinical practice guidelines was to analyse all of the interventions during pregnancy and childbirth that might prevent obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) and postnatal pelvic floor symptoms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

These guidelines were developed in accordance with the methods prescribed by the French Health Authority (HAS).

RESULTS

A prenatal clinical examination of the perineum is recommended for women with a history of Crohn's disease, OASIS, genital mutilation, or perianal lesions (professional consensus). Just after delivery, a perineal examination is recommended to check for OASIS (Grade B); if there is doubt about the diagnosis, a second opinion should be requested (GradeC). In case of OASIS, the injuries (including their severity) and the technique for their repair should be described in detail (GradeC). Perineal massage during pregnancy must be encouraged among women who want it (Grade B). No intervention conducted before the start of the active phase of the second stage of labour has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of perineal injury. The crowning of the baby's head should be manually controlled and the posterior perineum manually supported to reduce the risk of OASIS (GradeC). The performance of an episiotomy during normal deliveries is not recommended to reduce the risk of OASIS (Grade A). In instrumental deliveries, episiotomy may be indicated to avoid OASIS (GradeC). When an episiotomy is performed, a mediolateral incision is recommended (Grade B). The indication for episiotomy should be explained to the woman, and she should consent before its performance. Advising women to have a caesarean delivery for primary prevention of postnatal urinary or anal incontinence is not recommended (Grade B). During pregnancy and again in the labour room, obstetrics professionals should focus on the woman's expectations and inform her about the modes of delivery.

[Methods of preventing perineal injury and dysfunction during pregnancy: CNGOF Perineal prevention and protection in obstetrics]

OBJECTIVE

Several interventions during pregnancy have been described that might prevent the risk of postnatal perineal injury or dysfunction; these include prenatal perineal massage, use of the Epi-No device, and pelvic floor muscle training exercises. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of these different interventions during pregnancy.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted on PubMed, including articles in French and English published before May 2018, to evaluate the effectiveness of these different interventions on perineal protection in the post-partum period.

RESULTS

Perineal massage during pregnancy diminishes the episiotomy rate (LE1) as well as post-partum perineal pain and flatus (LE2). It does not reduce the rate of either OASIS (LE1) or post-partum urinary incontinence (LE2). The Epi-No device does not provide benefits for perineal protection (LE1). Prenatal pelvic floor muscle training exercises do not reduce the risk of perineal lacerations (LE2); they reduce the prevalence of post-partum urinary incontinence at 3 to 6 months but not at 12 months post-partum (LE2).

CONCLUSION

Perineal massage during pregnancy must be encouraged among women who want it (Grade B). The use of the Epi-No device during pregnancy is not recommended for the prevention of OASIS (grade B). Pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy is not recommended for the prevention of OASIS (grade B); moreover, its absence of effect in the medium term does not allow us to recommend it for urinary incontinence (professional consensus).

[Normal childbirth: physiologic labor support and medical procedures. Guidelines of the French National Authority for Health (HAS) with the collaboration of the French College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF) and the French College of Midwives (CNSF) -- Text of the Guidelines (short text)]

OBJECTIVE

The objective of these guidelines is to define for women at low obstetric risk modalities that respect the physiology of delivery and guarantee the quality and safety of maternal and newborn care.

METHODS

These guidelines were made by a consensus of experts based on an analysis of the scientific literature and the French and international recommendations available on the subject.

RESULTS

It is recommended to conduct a complete initial examination of the woman in labor at admission (consensus agreement). The labor will be monitored using a partogram that is a useful traceability tool (consensus agreement). A transvaginal examination may be offered every two to four hours during the first stage of labor and every hour during the second stage of labor or before if the patient requests it, or in case of a warning sign. It is recommended that if anesthesia is required, epidural or spinal anesthesia should be used to prevent bronchial inhalation (grade A). The consumption of clear fluids is permitted throughout labor in patients with a low risk of general anesthesia (grade B). It is recommended to carry out a "low dose" epidural analgesia that respects the experience of delivery (grade A). It is recommended to maintain the epidural analgesia through a woman's self-administration pump (grade A). It is recommended to give the woman the choice of continuous (by cardiotocography) or discontinuous (by cardiotocography or intermittent auscultation) monitoring if the conditions of maternity organization and the permanent availability of staff allow it and, after having informed the woman of the benefits and risks of each technique (consensus agreement). In the active phase of the first stage of labor, the dilation rate is considered abnormal if it is less than 1cm/4h between 5 and 7cm or less than 1cm/2h above 7cm (level of Evidence 2). It is then recommended to propose an amniotomy if the membranes are intact or an oxytocin administration if the membranes are already ruptured, and the uterine contractions considered insufficient (consensus agreement). It is recommended not to start expulsive efforts as soon as complete dilation is identified, but to let the presentation of the fetus drop (grade A). It is recommended to inform the gynecologist-obstetrician in case of nonprogression of the fetus after two hours of complete dilation with sufficient uterine dynamics (consensus agreement). It is recommended not to use abdominal expression (grade B). It is recommended to carry out preventive administration of oxytocin at 5 or 10 IU to prevent PPH after vaginal delivery (grade A). In the case of placental retention, it is recommended to perform a manual removal of the placenta (grade A). In the absence of bleeding, it should be performed 30minutes but not more than 60minutes after delivery (consensus agreement). It is recommended to assess at birth the breathing or screaming, and tone of the newborn to quickly determine if resuscitation is required (consensus agreement). If the parameters are satisfactory (breathing present, screaming frankly, and normal tonicity), it is recommended to propose to the mother that she immediately place the newborn skin-to-skin with her mother if she wishes, with a monitoring protocol (grade B). Delayed cord clamping is recommended beyond the first 30seconds in neonates, not requiring resuscitation (grade C). It is recommended that the first oral dose (2mg) of vitamin K (consensus agreement) be given systematically within two hours of birth.

CONCLUSION

These guidelines allow women at low obstetric risk to benefit from a better quality of care and optimal safety conditions while respecting the physiology of delivery.