Perineal repair of media-lateral episiotomies and 2nd degree tears by midwives: A randomised controlled trial comparing three suture techniques.

Background: Perineal trauma pain is associated with perineal repair and its subsequent healing. New evidence is required concerning perineal repair techniques that cause less pain and favour healing.

Objective: To compare three perineal repair suturing techniques after episiotomy or second degree tearing during a normal birth with respect to reducing pain and improving the perineal healing process.

Efficacy of "optimal hydration" during labor: HYDRATA study protocol for a randomized clinical trial.

There is a lack of consensus in the international scientific community with respect to the most suitable hydration strategies when attending nulliparous women during low-risk births. This paper describes the protocol for a randomized controlled trial to compare two hydration strategies and their influence on maternal and neonatal morbidity. The study population consists of nulliparous women admitted to the obstetrics department of a University Hospital.

The development and validation of a new postpartum sexual function and dyspareunia assessment tool: The Carol Scale.

Objective: The aim is to develop a new tool to evaluate postpartum sexual function and dyspareunia which will facilitate better evaluation of perineal pain in woman after vaginal delivery.

Design: The development and validation of the Carol Postpartum Sexual Function and Dyspareunia Assessment Scale.

Setting: The Obstetrics and Gynecology Service of a University Hospital in central Spain.