This study aims to understand whether informing laboring patients about how long they have been pushing during the second stage of labor affects the length of that stage and the overall childbirth experience. The second stage of labor is the period from when the cervix is fully dilated until the baby is delivered. When this stage lasts longer than expected, it can increase the chance of complications such as assisted delivery with vacuum or forceps, cesarean delivery, heavy bleeding after delivery, and certain neonatal complications. Although healthcare providers routinely track the duration of the second stage, patients are not always told how long they have been pushing. Some providers believe that sharing this information may help motivate patients and improve their sense of control, while others worry that it could increase stress or pressure. In this study, participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. In the intervention group, patients will receive regular updates about how long they have been pushing during the second stage of labor, and a visible timer will be used. In the comparison group, patients will receive standard care, which does not include structured time updates. All participants will receive the same medical care otherwise. The study will measure the length of the second stage of labor as well as maternal and neonatal outcomes such as the type of delivery, postpartum complications, newborn health indicators, and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. Participants will also be asked to complete a short questionnaire after delivery about their childbirth experience and sense of control during labor. The risks of this study are minimal because the intervention involves only providing information about time during labor. There are no changes to medical treatment or standard care. The information gained from this research may help clinicians improve communication with patients during labor and may identify simple ways to enhance patient experience and potentially improve labor outcomes. Participation in the study is voluntary, and patients may decline or withdraw at any time without affecting the care they receive.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
FEMALE
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Mean difference of the duration of the second stage of labor
Timeframe: From complete cervical dilation(10cm-which is the start of the second stage) to delivery of the neonate(either spontaneously or operative vaginal delivery), or cessation of pushing for cesarean delivery, maximum of 4 hours from complete cervical dilation
Duration of the second stage of labor
Timeframe: full cervical dilatation to expulsion of the fetus