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International Urogynecology Journal

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01-12-2011 | Original Article

Does the Epi-No® Birth Trainer reduce levator trauma? A randomised controlled trial

Authors: Ka Lai Shek, Varisara Chantarasorn, Susanne Langer, Hala Phipps, Hans Peter Dietz

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 12/2011

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether antepartum use of a birth trainer may reduce levator trauma.

Methods

Two hundred nulliparous women were examined with four-dimensional translabial ultrasonography at 35–37 weeks of gestation and 3 months postpartum in a randomised controlled pilot study. Women in the intervention group were instructed to use the birth trainer from 37 weeks onwards.

Results

One hundred forty-six women returned for follow-up 5.6 months (range 2.3–22.1) after childbirth. Seventy-eight of them had had normal vaginal deliveries (53%), 32 vacuum/forceps (22%) and 36 a caesarean section (25%). The risk of avulsion was halved in the intervention group (6% vs 13%, P = 0.19) on modified intention to treat analysis. A treatment received analysis revealed a nonsignificant 42% and 30% reduction in levator avulsion and microtrauma, respectively (P ≥ 0.22).

Conclusions

This pilot randomised controlled trial showed a nonsignificantly lower incidence of pelvic floor muscle injury in women who used the Epi-No® device from 37 weeks onwards.

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Title: Does the Epi-No® Birth Trainer reduce levator trauma? A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ka Lai Shek
Varisara Chantarasorn
Susanne Langer
Hala Phipps
Hans Peter Dietz
Publication date: 01-12-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 12/2011
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-011-1517-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Does the Epi-No® Birth Trainer reduce levator trauma? A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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