Influence of Ambulation during the First Stage of Labor on Labor Progress of Primi Parturients

Abstract

Background: The first labor stage is the longest. Progress of labor is usually assessed by changes in cervical dilatation, the descent of the fetal head, and uterine contractions. Normal labor progress might be attained by providing evidence-based practices. Ambulation during labor is one of the practices that may affect the progress of labor. Aim: This study aimed to assess the influence of ambulation during the first stage of labor on labor progress of primi parturients. Methods: A quasi-experimental research design was conducted at the Labor and Delivery unit, Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt. A purposive sample of 86 primi parturient mothers at the early active phase was allocated either to the control group who received the usual labor care or to the ambulation group who were ambulated during the active phase besides the usual care. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and the modified Partograph sheet. Results: The labor progressed faster in the ambulation group compared to the control group giving a shorter active phase, second stage and third stage of labor with a mean difference of 2.3 hours, 20.1 minutes, and 3.0 minutes respectively; p < 0.001) and lower Cesarean Section deliveries (11.6% vs. 41.9% respectively; p = 0.002). Conclusion: The current study hypotheses were accepted; where the ambulation during the active phase of the first stage of labor was an effective intervention for enhancing the labor progress compared to the usual care only. Thus, it is recommended for the primi parturient mothers to ambulate at the early active phase of labor.