Sexual function changes during pregnancy.

Introduction And Hypothesis: We describe changes in sexual activity and function among pregnant nulliparous women.

Methods: This secondary analysis evaluated sexual activity and function with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) at baseline in the first (T1), second (T2) and early third (T3) trimester. Evaluation was repeated in T3 after 36 completed weeks of gestation.

The Effect of Perineal Lacerations on Pelvic Floor Function and Anatomy at 6 Months Postpartum in a Prospective Cohort of Nulliparous Women.

Objective: To determine the effect of perineal lacerations on pelvic floor outcomes, including urinary and anal incontinence, sexual function, and perineal pain in a nulliparous cohort with low incidence of episiotomy.

Methods: Nulliparous women were prospectively recruited from a midwifery practice. Pelvic floor symptoms were assessed with validated questionnaires, physical examination, and objective measures in pregnancy and 6 months postpartum.

Contribution of the second stage of labour to pelvic floor dysfunction: a prospective cohort comparison of nulliparous women.

Objective: Maternal expulsive efforts are thought to damage the pelvic floor. We aimed to compare pelvic floor function and anatomy between women who delivered vaginally (VB) versus those with caesarean delivery (CD) prior to the second stage of labour.

Design: Prospective cohort.

Outcomes of planned home births attended by certified nurse-midwives in southeastern Pennsylvania, 1983-2008.

Introduction: In this study, we examined the perinatal outcomes of planned home births over a 25-year period (1983-2008) in a group of primarily Amish women (98%) attended by certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive analysis of data (N = 1836 births) from several CNM practices. Data were abstracted for 25 items, including demographics, labor, and birth.

Does epidural analgesia affect the rate of spontaneous obstetric lacerations in normal births?

The precise relationship between epidural use and genital tract lacerations in normal childbirth is unclear. Data from a clinical trial on measures to lower genital tract trauma in vaginal birth were used for a secondary analysis. The goal was to assess whether epidurals affect the rate of spontaneous obstetric lacerations in normal vaginal births.