Pushing Using Real-time Sonographic Ultrasound Education
Italy136 participantsStarted 2025-07-19
Plain-language summary
The study aims to assess whether the use of ultrasound during a pushing lesson can facilitate easier and safer childbirth. The research will be conducted at a single hospital and will involve pregnant women in their second trimester who enroll in an online childbirth course. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
One group will receive standard pushing instructions from a midwife.
The other group will receive the same instructions along with a brief ultrasound session to visually support correct pushing techniques.
The primary outcome is a potential reduction in the duration of the second stage of labor (when the baby is being delivered). Secondary outcomes include improved coordination of pelvic floor muscles, fewer perineal tears, a higher rate of vaginal births, reduced postnatal urinary incontinence, and greater maternal satisfaction.
Approximately 136 women will be enrolled in the study (accounting for potential dropouts). The expectation is that this integrated teaching approach will enhance the effectiveness, safety, and overall experience of pushing during labor for both mothers and their newborns.
Who can participate
Age range18 Years
SexFEMALE
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Inclusion criteria
✓. Nulliparous women in their second trimester (approximately 14-28 weeks of gestation).
✓. Willingness to participate in the preparation training program on pushing techniques.
✓. Singleton pregnancy.
✓. Age 18 years or older.
✓. Ability to understand and provide informed consent in Italian.
✓. Plan to deliver at the Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS.