Regulated Expiratory Methods During Childbirth Process: A Randomized Controlled Trial

To evaluate the impact of a regulated expiratory method (REM) on the childbirth process.

This was a randomized trial. Study population included all first-time mothers with a spontaneous onset of labour, at an early stage, and a fetus in cephalic presentation with a normal weight for gestational age. The evaluated intervention was REM based on the use of a specific device. The primary outcome was the cesarean delivery rate. Secondary outcomes included first and second stages of labour times, rates of spontaneous and instrumental vaginal births, and pain scores. Subjective qualitative outcomes related to childbirth experience were evaluated via 2 interviews conducted with the parturient and the midwife responsible for her delivery. Intention-to-treat analysis was employed to compare the 2 groups.

The reduction in primary cesarean rates between the 2 groups was not significant (26.7% in control group vs. 18.3% in intervention group; P = 0.274). However, REM allowed for a significant reduction in second stage (P = 0.039) and pushing effort times (P = 0.003). According to midwives, REM had a significant positive impact on parturients' breathing (P < 0.0001) and pushing effort intensity (P = 0.041). It facilitated communication with the parturient (P = 0.002). Moreover, the evaluated method had a significant positive impact on patient's childbirth experience.

Although the reduction in immediate cesarean rates was not significant, REM has the potential to shorten labour duration, improve pain management, and ultimately improve maternal childbirth experience.