Fewer birth defects with two midwives

Before delivery, first-time mothers who chose to participate in the study were divided into two groups. The first, made up of 1,546 women, had two midwives with her during the crucifixion. The second group, consisting of 1,513 women, received standard treatment, that is, had only one midwife.

In the group with two midwives, 3.9 percent suffered so-called sphincter injuries (severe stretch marks), while 5.7 percent of those who had only one midwife at the end of delivery suffered such injuries.

“The number of severe stretch marks was reduced by 30 percent in the group where the women received support and care from two midwives. Since many maternity wards have already introduced this method, we are pleased that we now have scientific support for this method,” says the midwife and researcher at the University of Malin. Edqvist in a press release from Lunds University.

Severe stretch marks can sometimes have lifelong consequences for the patient. This could be, for example, about long-term pain, fecal incontinence, and the impact on sexual life, according to Professor Christine Robertson at Lund University, who was primarily responsible for the study.

“There are many research questions in women’s health to look out for,” she says in a press release. “Our research helps fill in some of the knowledge gaps.”

The 2018-2020 study continued in maternity wards in Lund, Malmö, Solna, Houding and Karlstad. The results are presented in the scientific journal scalpel.