Comparison of maternal outcomes in nulliparous women in both physiological and traditional delivery: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction: Nowadays, unnecessary medical interventions during labor may lead to adverse maternal outcomes. This study was carried out to compare maternal outcomes in nulliparous women between two physiological and traditional delivery groups. Methods: This single-blind clinical trial was conducted on 370 nulliparous mothers in Shahid Nooraani hospital of Talesh, Iran, 2011. Randlist software was used for generating a randomization list and samples were classified into four and six blocks. Each participant was given an envelope that the type of intervention was written inside it. Data were collected through observation of labor process, interview with mothers and contents of their files. Data collection tools were a checklist of five parts including: demographic information, partograph form, assessment of four stages of labor and ten days after childbirth. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 13, t-test and chi -square test. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A statistically significant difference was existed between two groups regarding the type of delivery (vaginal delivery without episiotomy, vaginal delivery with episiotomy and cesarean section) (p<0.001). Also there was statistically significant difference about postpartum infection (p=0.009). Rate of vaginal delivery with episiotomy, infection and cesarean section rate was lower in intervention group, but the rate of vaginal delivery without episiotomy was higher. Conclusion: Physiologic delivery is preferred to prevent the complications of non appropriate interventions in pregnant women. é 2013 All Rights Reserved.