Tracking walking movements during labor with inertial sensors

Movement Observation and Tracking In Obstetrics - Epidural and Ambulation Feasibility Study Using Inertial Sensors

Observational Hospices Civils de Lyon · NCT06471790

This study is testing how walking during the first stage of labor affects the experience and outcomes for women who are at least 38 weeks pregnant and using low-dose epidurals.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexFemale
SponsorHospices Civils de Lyon Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lyon)
Trial IDNCT06471790 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the impact of ambulation during the first stage of labor on various outcomes, including labor duration and patient satisfaction. It focuses on women who are at least 38 weeks pregnant and receiving low-dose epidural analgesia, allowing them to move freely. The study will utilize inertial sensors to track walking movements and gait characteristics, addressing barriers to ambulation such as facility limitations and safety concerns. The goal is to enhance the birthing experience while ensuring safety and comfort for the patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pregnant women at 38 weeks or more, in good health, and receiving low-dose epidural analgesia.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with significant medical histories, multiple pregnancies, or those requiring continuous intravenous infusion during ambulation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve labor experiences and outcomes for women by promoting safe ambulation during labor.

How similar studies have performed: While the effects of ambulation during labor are debated, this approach is innovative in utilizing technology to enhance patient care and has not been extensively tested in this specific context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* pregnancy \>= 38 gestation weeks
* no significant medical history (American Society of Anesthesiologists class ASA 1)
* receiving low-dose epidural analgesia with ambulation (in accordance with current service protocol)
* not opposed to the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Refusal to participate in this study
* Non-French-speaking patient
* History of osteoarticular pathology likely to change gate (severe scoliosis, spinal surgery, congenital hip deformity, pelvic fracture, ligament or knee joint pathology)
* adults under legal protection
* multiple pregnancy
* need for continuous intravenous infusion with infusion stand during ambulation

Where this trial is running

Lyon

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 Pregnancy RelatedEpiduralAnesthesia, HeadacheLabor ComplicationPREGNANCYLABOREPIDURAL ANALGESIAWALKING EPIDURAL
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.