The Efficacy of Divabirth Vaginal Dilator to Prevent Pelvic Floor Trauma During Labor: A Protocol Study

BACKGROUND: Vaginal birth may have a negative impact on nerve structure and function, pelvic floor muscle structure, and function. Reducing the risk of pelvic floor injuries during vaginal birth is one of the most effective ways to prevent labor morbidity in women. There is a lack of tools developed based on this approach, especially in Indonesia. Therefore, we aimed to know the efficacy of a vaginal dilator called Divabirth based on labor outcomes. METHODS: This clinical study involved subjects who are randomly grouped in to the control and treatment groups. Subjects in the treatment group are told to utilize vaginal dilator devices for 20 minutes each session, a maximum of two sessions per day, lasting 5 minutes every cycle, from 35 weeks of gestation until delivery. DISCUSSIONS: The current research contributes valuable information to developing a vaginal dilator intervention program for pregnant women to reduce perineal laceration and improve labor outcomes. It may also help to lower their medical and treatment expenditures. We expect its success to be a step forward in improving reproductive health status. HIGHLIGHTS: Vaginal birth may have negative impact on nerve and pelvic floor muscle structure and function. Lack of tool has been developed to reduce the risk of pelvic floor injuries during vaginal birth. A study protocol of vaginal dilator usage to know the efficacy based on labor outcomes;