Reducing Genital Tract Trauma at Birth
Reducing Genital Tract Trauma at Birth
Genital tract trauma is a common outcome of vaginal birth, and can cause short-term and long-term problems for new mothers. Preventive measures have not been fully explicated. Midwives use a variety of hand maneuvers late in the second stage of labor, in the belief that genital trauma can be reduced. However, none of these care measures have been rigorously tested to determine if they are effective. A midwifery practice offers an ideal setting to study the relationship of hand techniques by the birth attendant to reduction of genital tract trauma.
Childbirth is the most common reason for hospitalization in the United States. Some four million babies are born each year, nearly all in hospitals. Approximately 76% of births are vaginal deliveries, over three million per year. Most of these women experience trauma to the genital tract at birth, with over half sustaining trauma extensive enough to warrant suturing.
Genital tract trauma is a common outcome of vaginal birth, and can cause short-term and long-term problems for new mothers. Preventive measures have not been fully explicated. Midwives use a variety of hand maneuvers late in the second stage of labor, in the belief that genital trauma can be reduced. However, none of these care measures have been rigorously tested to determine if they are effective. A midwifery practice offers an ideal setting to study the relationship of hand techniques by the birth attendant to reduction of genital tract trauma.
Childbirth is the most common reason for hospitalization in the United States. Some four million babies are born each year, nearly all in hospitals. Approximately 76% of births are vaginal deliveries, over three million per year. Most of these women experience trauma to the genital tract at birth, with over half sustaining trauma extensive enough to warrant suturing.
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