The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether perineal massage during labor can help prevent perineal trauma, such as lacerations or episiotomies.
The study will test two hypotheses:
Null hypothesis: Perineal massage during labor does not prevent perineal trauma.
Alternative hypothesis: Perineal massage during labor helps prevent perineal trauma.
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
Perineal massage group: Participants will receive perineal massage during labor.
Control group: Participants will receive the standard care provided by the labor and delivery unit.
A randomization process will be used to assign participants to each group.
Patients currently in labor
Gestational age between 37 and 42 weeks
Fetus presenting in cephalic position
No prior perineal massage performed during prenatal care
Patients who progress to cesarean delivery
Diagnosis of HELLP syndrome
Unstable vital signs of the laboring woman or fetus