Yes / Perineal trauma is associated with short- and long-term maternal
morbidity. Research has found that maternal position at birth can
influence perineal trauma. However, there is a dearth of evidence
examining specific maternal positions, including waterbirth, and
how these can influence incidence and degree of perineal trauma.
Such evidence is important to help reduce trauma rates and improve
information for women and midwives. To address this gap in reliable
evidence, a systematic review was conducted. Seven studies met the
inclusion criteria. Compared to land birth, waterbirth was found to cause
an increase in perineal trauma. Kneeling and all-fours positions were
most protective of an intact perineum. Allowing for different variables,
sitting, squatting and using a birth-stool caused the greatest incidence
of trauma. The findings of this review demonstrate that further research
is required around perineal guarding in alternative birth positions and
how parity affects trauma rates with waterbirth, so that women may be
advised appropriately. It also suggests findings that midwives can use
when discussing alternative birth positions with women.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BRADFORD/oai:bradscholars.brad.ac.uk:10454/7900 |
| Date | 01 1900 |
| Creators | Lodge, Fay, Haith-Cooper, Melanie |
| Source Sets | Bradford Scholars |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Article, Accepted manuscript |
| Rights | © 2016 Mark Allen Healthcare. Reproduced in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy. |
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