Effect of Perineal Massage on Perineal Traumas for Nulliparous Women during Labor

Abstract

Background: Short and long-term morbidity in women is associated with perineal trauma, mainly caused by subsequent vaginal delivery. Interventions that increase the likelihood of intact perineum are therefore needed. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of perineal massage on perineal traumas for nulliparous women during labor. Methods: This Comparative quasi experimental design was conducted in the labor unit at Suez Canal University Hospital. A purposive sample of 74 laboring women in the labor unit. Three tools were used for data collection, interviewing questionnaire for assessing demographic characteristics. Observational checklist and visual Analogue Scale (RAS). Results: The incidence of perineal trauma was significantly lower for women who received perineal massage during labor than those who did not (54.05% in the massage group had intact perineum compared to 29.73% in the control group). The perineal pain score among women in the massage group is also lower than in the control group at the end of labor and the fourth stage of labor. Conclusions: This study concluded that perineum massage performed in the active phase of labor is safe, increases the occurrence of an intact perineum, decreased the risk of episiotomy and severe perineal trauma. As well as perineal pain, which improves the quality of life in women post vaginal delivery. Implications for Practice: Awareness program for healthy nulliparous women regarding the benefits of perineal massage by their health care providers.