Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology · 2004 · 47 citations · 0 references
MedicineMaternal HealthObstetricsMaternal-fetal MedicineNeonatologyPerinatal EpidemiologyAntenatal AssessmentNeonatal OutcomesPerinatal CarePerinatal Health PromotionPerineal CareNeonatal Apgar ScoresNeonatal Outcome PredictionPerinatal Outcome MonitoringPerinatal Outcome PredictionPilot Study DesignPilot Study PlanningPilot Study Sample SizePostpartum Perineal Care
BACKGROUND: A German report suggested significantly better outcomes in terms of perineal care, second stage length and neonatal outcome for users of Epi-No. OBJECTIVE: To carry out a pilot study of the first use of the Epi-No birth training device in Australia for women having their first baby. STUDY POPULATION AND METHODS: Forty-eight primigravidae having their confinement at Birralee Birthing Unit who used the device compared to all other primigravida who delivered during the same period. RESULTS: The study shows a highly significantly improved outcome for the perineum when users are compared to primigravid non-user controls. We could not demonstrate decreased instrumental delivery rates nor a better outcome in term of Apgar scores. DISCUSSION: The Epi-No device should be offered as an option to all primigravidae to use during the late third trimester.