The second stage of labor, characterized by active pushing and the descent of the fetal head, can be a challenging and prolonged phase for both mother and baby. Various interventions have been explored to optimize this stage, and one such technique involves the application of vaginal lubricants. The rationale behind this approach is to reduce friction between the fetal head and the birth canal, potentially leading to smoother and faster delivery. Does this seemingly simple technique work? Does the ACOG mention this in the CPG 8 from January 2024? What does the latest research tell us about its effectiveness in assisting or speeding up the birthing process? Listen in for details.

1. Yang Q, Cao X, Hu S, Sun M, Lai H, Hou L, Wang Q, Wu C, Wu Y, Xiao L, Luo X, Tian J, Ge L, Shi L. Lubricant for reducing perineal trauma: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2022 Nov;48(11):2807-2820. doi: 10.1111/jog.15399. Epub 2022 Aug 16. PMID: 36319196.

2. ACOG: First and Second Stage Labor Management Clinical Practice Guideline Number 8: January 2024

3. Aquino CI, Saccone G, Troisi J, Zullo F, Guida M, Berghella V. Use of lubricant gel to shorten the second stage of labor during vaginal delivery. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2019 Dec;32(24):4166-4173. doi: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1482271. Epub 2018 Jun 27. PMID: 29804505.

4. Beckmann MM, Stock OM. Antenatal Perineal Massage for Reducing Perineal Trauma. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2013;(4):CD005123. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005123.pub3.