Effect of an Ergonomic Ankle Support for Squatting Position on Labor progress and maternal outcome

Abstract

Introduction: Postural changes can be one of the simplest ways of promoting labor, as women can use them while remaining in bed, if medically indicated. Aim of the study to evaluate, the effect of an ergonomic ankle support for squatting position on progress of labor and maternal outcome among primiparae women. Design: A quasi-experimental research design was utilized. Subjects: A convenience study subject of (80) women were selected from EL-Shatby Maternity University Hospital. Tools: four tools were used by the researchers to collect the necessary data: Tool I: basic data structured interview schedule, Tool II: Partograph, Tool III: Maternal Outcome Observational Checklist and Tool IV: Cardiotocography (CTG). Results: There was highly a statistically significant differences between both groups (P=0.000) from the 1st to the 6th hour in relation to frequency, duration and intensity of uterine contraction. Mean cervical effacement demonstrated highly statistically significant difference (P=0.000) among the study and the control groups from the 1st to the 6th hours. Furthermore, highly a statistically significant difference was found between the study subjects' mean duration of the 1st stage of labor (P<0.000). Conclusion: it can be concluded that assuming squatting position with ergonomic ankle support for during the active phase of labor was more effective in accelerating progress of labor among the study group in terms of: stronger uterine contractions, faster cervical dilatation and effacement, faster fetal head descent and shorter duration of the three stages of labor. Recommendations: Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle support position should be advocated as one of the significant modalities to manage labor pains, Upright positions, especially Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle support position, during the first stage of labor need to be incorporated into antenatal care activities and Laboring women should be encouraged to assume upright (Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle support) position during the first stage of labor to control pain, facilitate labor as well as to promote self-control and attain more satisfactory birthing experience.