Influence of muscle variables on delivery route after perineal preparation in primiparous women

Abstract

Introduction: Many pregnant women seek vaginal delivery, as a healthier and more respectful mode of delivery, and perineal massage and instrument-assisted perineal stretching techniques aim to bring better postpartum outcomes. Despite this, some deliveries may not occur as expected and conclude with interventions or surgical delivery. Objective: To analyze the influence of muscle variables on the mode of delivery of women undergoing perineal preparation. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a clinical trial in which primiparous women with a gestational age of 33 weeks were included. Evaluations were performed before and after eight intervention sessions using perineal massage and stretching assisted by the Epi-No Delphine Plus® instrument. Perineal distensibility muscle variables were evaluated using the Epi-No Delphine Plus® equipment and the peak and mean strength of pelvic floor muscles (PFM) using the PeritronTM vaginal manometer. After delivery, the method of delivery performed was determined by telephone contact. For statistical analysis, univariate logistic regression was performed with a significance level of 0.05. Results: Sixty-one primiparous women were included in the study (mean age: 30 years; SD: 4.8). None of the muscle variables examined were predictors for vaginal delivery (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Muscle variables did not influence the final delivery route of women undergoing perineal preparation.