Clinical Research Directory

USE OF PERINEAL MIRROR DURING THE SECOND STAGE OF LABOR

Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of perineal mirror use during the second stage of labor on the duration of the second stage, postpartum recovery, and perceived pain, support, and control levels during delivery. Method: The study was designed as a randomized controlled experimental study to examine the effect of perineal mirror use on delivery outcomes in primiparous women. The study population consisted of primiparous pregnant women admitted to the maternity clinic between June 29, 2026, and October 30, 2026. The sample size was calculated using the G\*Power 3.1.9.2 program with an effect size of 0.50, 5% Type I error, and 95% power level; a total of 72 participants were selected, 36 in the intervention group and 36 in the control group. Considering potential losses, the sample size was increased by 10%, and a total of 80 pregnant women were planned to be included in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group using a perineal mirror and the control group receiving routine care. The following instruments will be used as data collection tools: Pregnancy Demographic Information Form, REEDA Scale, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Perceived Support and Control in Childbirth Scale. Expected Outcome: It is predicted that the perineal mirror may increase the woman's active participation, motivation, and perceived control by allowing her to see the fetal descent and the progress of labor; consequently, it may reduce the duration of active pushing and the duration of the second stage. It is also thought that it may have positive effects on the birth experience, postpartum recovery, and perceived level of support and control. The research results are expected to provide evidence for non-invasive and low-cost applications that can be used in childbirth care.

Effect of Maternal Awareness of the Duration fo the Second Stage of Labor on the Length of the Second Stage

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.