Does combining warm perineal compresses with perineal massage during the second stage of labor reduce perineal trauma? A randomized controlled trial.

Background: Various interventions have been applied to reduce perineal trauma and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS). The efficacy of warm compresses during the second stage of labor for reducing the occurrence of perineal tears is controversial.

Objective: We aimed to compare rates of spontaneous perineal tears requiring suturing, between women who received warm compresses plus perineal massage vs perineal massage alone.