Perineal massage in labour does not prevent trauma

Perineal massage in the second stage of labour has no effect on perineal trauma or pain, or subsequent sexual, urinary or fecal outcomes. In their randomised trial of this practice in 1300 women, Stamp et al (p 1277) found that there was a slight reduction in third degree tears in the massage group, but the study was not powered enough to be certain. The two groups did not differ in any other of the secondary outcomes measured or in adverse events, thus supporting the practice of perineal massage in women who request it.


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Relevant Article

Perineal massage in labour and prevention of perineal trauma: randomised controlled trial
Georgina Stamp, Gillian Kruzins, and Caroline Crowther
BMJ 2001 322: 1277-1280. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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