Hands on vs Hands Off for Perineal Laceration

Different strategies have been adopted in the late first and/or second stage of labor to decrease the incidence of perineal lacerations. These strategies include not only the hands-on technique, but also warm compresses, perineal massage, the use of oil or jelly, the Ritgen maneuver and a new perineal protection device. The review by Aasheim reported a decreased risk of third- and fourth-degree lacerations in the perineal massage group (two studies, RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.94).4 This review also showed a similar reduction in third- and fourth-degree lacerations with warm compresses (two studies, RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.84), but no significant changes with use of a Ritgen maneuver. Additional reviews have evaluated delayed versus immediate pushing, with no significant difference in perineal trauma.

Regarding how the interventions may work, initially the hands-on technique was hypothesized to control the velocity of the crowning process and therefore decrease perineal trauma. Given the fact that the hands-on approach has been found to be possibly associated with more perineal lacerations instead of less, some have proposed that the harm may be caused by the hands-on approach's additional pressure resulting in some perineal ischemia. Moreover, using one intervention (e.g. hands-on) may predispose to use other interventions (e.g. episiotomy), which have themselves been proven to increase perineal trauma.

Perhaps a combination of perineal interventions, such as massage or compresses, with a hands-off approach and avoidance of episiotomy, will prove to show improved perineal outcomes. Larger studies, including evaluation specific for nulliparous subjects, are required to make definitive recommendations for management.

Inclusion criteria

• Singleton gestations
• Low risk pregnancies
• 37 to 42 weeks of gestations

Exclusion criteria

• Multiple gestations
• Preterm birth