Using warm compresses during labor to reduce perineal tears
Use of Warm Compresses During the Second Stage and the Risk of Perineal Tears: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if using warm compresses during labor can help women avoid severe perineal tears compared to the usual care with almond oil.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 412 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Western Galilee Hospital-Nahariya Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Nahariya, Hazafon) |
| Trial ID | NCT05851170 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of warm compresses applied to the perineum during the second stage of labor compared to standard care using almond oil. The research is motivated by previous meta-analyses suggesting that warm compresses may increase the likelihood of an intact perineum and decrease the incidence of severe perineal tears. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the study seeks to provide clearer evidence on the benefits of this intervention. Participants will be monitored for outcomes related to perineal integrity and trauma.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women with term, singleton pregnancies presenting in a vertex position.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of third degree perineal tears or certain medical conditions like Crohn's disease with perineal involvement may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved outcomes for women during vaginal delivery by reducing the incidence of perineal tears.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of warm compresses, indicating a need for further randomized trials to clarify their impact.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Term pregnancy * Singleton pregnancy * Vertex presentation Exclusion Criteria: * Women with a history of third degree perineal tear in the past * Intrauterine fetal death * Crohn disease with perineal involvement
Where this trial is running
Nahariya, Hazafon
- Galilee Medical Center — Nahariya, Hazafon, Israel (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Raneen Abu Shqara, MD — Galilee Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Raneen Abu Shqara, MD
- Email: rabushqara@gmail.com
- Phone: +972549793591
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.