Reducing Cesarean Sections for Difficult Labors

The REDUCED Trial: REDucing the Utilization of CEsarean Sections for Dystocia

Not applicable Interventional University of Calgary · NCT02874443

This study is testing new guidelines to see if they can help first-time mothers have safer labors and reduce the number of cesarean sections needed.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100000 (estimated)
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Calgary Academic / other
Locations1 site (Calgary, Alberta)
Trial IDNCT02874443 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project is a clustered randomized controlled trial aimed at implementing new ACOG guidelines to improve the diagnosis of poor progress in labor. The goal is to reduce cesarean section rates among first-time mothers at term with a singleton fetus while ensuring maternal and neonatal safety. The intervention will be rolled out in Alberta hospitals that meet specific criteria, with randomization occurring at the center level to prevent crossover effects. The study will involve a sequential introduction of the intervention across different hospital strata over a multi-week period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are first-time mothers at term with a singleton fetus who are experiencing labor difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who are not first-time mothers or those with multiple gestations may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly lower the rates of unnecessary cesarean sections, improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in implementing similar knowledge translation interventions to reduce cesarean section rates, indicating a promising approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Centers in Alberta that provide intrapartum care, have facilities to perform cesarean section and deliver at least 70 primparous women annually

Exclusion Criteria:

Where this trial is running

Calgary, Alberta

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cesarean Section, Dystocia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.