NCT06670235

Effectiveness of Upright vs. Lithotomy Birthing Position on Maternal and Newborn Outcomes

Effectiveness of Using Upright Versus Lithotomy Birthing Position on Maternal and Newborn Outcomes: A Quasi Experimental Study

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 124 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Hawler Medical University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 18 Years – 35 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

This study investigates the effectiveness of upright versus lithotomy birthing positions on maternal and newborn outcomes. Conducted at the Maternity Teaching Hospital in Erbil City, it employs a quasi-experimental design with 62 women in each group (Intervention and control), comparing outcomes for those encouraged to use upright positions with those in standard lithotomy. Maternal and newborn outcomes will be assessed to provide evidence on how birthing positions impact labor progression, comfort, and delivery results. The findings aim to inform clinical practice and policy, enhancing midwifery care and supporting patient-centered approaches to childbirth. Does the upright birthing position effect on maternal and newborn outcomes? Does the lithotomy birthing position effect on maternal and newborn outcomes? The expected outcomes will decrease the rate of perineal tear , episiotomy , post partum hemorrhage and decreasing the rate of admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in newborn.

Detailed description

This quasi-experimental study assesses the impact of upright versus lithotomy birthing positions on maternal and newborn outcomes, aiming to contribute evidence-based recommendations for optimal birthing practices. As childbirth management increasingly prioritizes maternal comfort and positive birth experiences, this research seeks to fill gaps in understanding the clinical efficacy and maternal satisfaction associated with each position. Conducted at the Maternity Teaching Hospital in Erbil City, the study will recruit 124 pregnant women, divided equally into two groups: one encouraged to adopt upright positions (e.g., squatting) during labor and delivery, and the other following standard lithotomy position practices. A non probability convenience sampling method is employed, with participants meeting specific inclusion criteria such as gestational age, health status, and labor progression factors. The intervention includes the promotion of upright positions in the experimental group, while both groups receive standardized maternal care. Data on maternal outcomes-such as labor duration, pain levels, and delivery type-and newborn outcomes, including Apgar scores and need for resuscitation, will be collected and analyzed pre- and post-intervention. The study's goal is to identify whether upright positions correlate with enhanced labor outcomes, reduced intervention rates, and increased maternal satisfaction. Findings are expected to guide clinical guidelines, informing both practitioners and patients on effective, patient-centered birthing positions. This research further aims to influence midwifery education and policy, advocating for practices that align with women's preferences and cultural contexts, ultimately enhancing maternal and neonatal health outcomes through evidence-based childbirth management.

Conditions

• Maternal Outcomes
• Newborn Complication

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Upright Birthing Position	This intervention involves encouraging participants to use an upright position during labor and delivery, which may include : squatting, based on their preference and comfort level. Healthcare staff will support the participants in maintaining an upright position throughout labor as much as possible to evaluate its effects on maternal and newborn outcomes.
BEHAVIORAL	Lithotomy Birthing Position	Participants in this arm will be positioned in the lithotomy position during labor and delivery, which is a common practice in clinical settings. In this position, the mother lies on her back with her legs supported in stirrups. This intervention serves as the control condition to provide a baseline comparison for evaluating outcomes against the upright birthing position.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-11-10
• Primary completion: 2025-10-25
• Completion: 2026-09-01
• First posted: 2024-11-01
• Last updated: 2024-11-01

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Iraq