RCOG - Parto Normal

Issue date: September 2007
Intrapartum care
Care of healthy women and their babies during childbirth
NICE clinical guideline 55

Developed by the National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health
NICE clinical guideline 55
Intrapartum care: care of healthy women and their babies during
childbirth
Ordering information
You can download the following documents from www.nice.org.uk/CG055
• The NICE guideline (this document) – all the recommendations.
• A quick reference guide – a summary of the recommendations for
healthcare professionals.
• ‘Understanding NICE guidance’ – information for patients and carers.
• The full guideline – all the recommendations, details of how they were
developed, and reviews of the evidence they were based on.
For printed copies of the quick reference guide or ‘Understanding NICE

guidance’, phone the NHS Response Line on 0870 1555 455 and quote:
• N1326 (quick reference guide)
• N1327 (‘Understanding NICE guidance’).
NICE clinical guidelines are recommendations about the treatment and care of
people with specific diseases and conditions in the NHS in England and
Wales
This guidance represents the view of the Institute, which was arrived at after
careful consideration of the evidence available. Healthcare professionals are
expected to take it fully into account when exercising their clinical judgement.
The guidance does not, however, override the individual responsibility of
healthcare professionals to make decisions appropriate to the circumstances
of the individual patient, in consultation with the patient and/or guardian or
carer and informed by the summary of product characteristics of any drugs
they are considering.
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA
www.nice.org.uk
© National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, 2007. All rights reserved. This material
may be freely reproduced for educational and not-for-profit purposes. No reproduction by or
for commercial organisations, or for commercial purposes, is allowed without the express
written permission of the Institute.
Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................................5
Woman- and baby-centred care.......................................................................6
Key priorities for implementation......................................................................7
1 Guidance ..................................................................................................9
1.1 Planning place of birth .......................................................................9
1.2 Indications for intrapartum transfer ..................................................16
1.3 Care throughout labour....................................................................16
1.4 Coping with pain in labour: non-epidural..........................................19
1.5 Pain relief in labour: regional analgesia ...........................................21
1.6 Normal labour: first stage.................................................................24
1.7 Normal labour: second stage...........................................................29
1.8 Normal labour: third stage ...............................................................33
1.9 Normal labour: care of the baby and woman immediately
after birth ....................................................................................................35
1.10 Prelabour rupture of the membranes at term...................................39
1.11 Meconium-stained liquor..................................................................42
1.12 Complicated labour: monitoring babies in labour.............................43
1.13 Complicated labour: first stage ........................................................49
1.14 Complicated labour: second stage ..................................................51
1.15 Complicated labour: immediate care of newborn.............................53
1.16 Complicated labour: third stage .......................................................53
2 Notes on the scope of the guidance .......................................................56
3 Implementation .......................................................................................57
4 Research recommendations ...................................................................58
4.1 Planning place of birth .....................................................................58
4.2 Wellbeing of women ........................................................................58
4.3 Delay in the first stage of labour ......................................................59
5 Other versions of this guideline...............................................................59
5.1 Full guideline ...................................................................................59
5.2 Quick reference guide......................................................................60
5.3 ‘Understanding NICE guidance’.......................................................60
6 Related NICE guidance ..........................................................................60
7 Updating the guideline ............................................................................61
Appendix A: The Guideline Development Group ...........................................62
Appendix B: The Guideline Review Panel .....................................................64
Appendix C: The algorithms...........................................................................65
Introduction
Birth is a life-changing event and the care given to women during labour has
the potential to affect them both physically and emotionally in the short and
longer term.
This guideline covers the care of healthy women in labour at term

(37–42 weeks). About 600,000 women give birth in England and Wales each
year, of whom about 40% are having their first baby. Most of these women are
healthy and have a straightforward pregnancy. Almost 90% of women will give
birth to a single baby after 37 weeks of pregnancy with the baby presenting
head first. Most women (about two thirds) go into labour spontaneously. The
majority of women giving birth in the UK therefore fall under the scope of this
guideline.
This guideline does not cover the care of women with suspected or confirmed
preterm labour; women with an intrauterine death of their baby; women with
coexisting severe morbidities such as pre-eclampsia or diabetes; women who
have multiple pregnancies; or women with intrauterine growth retardation of
the unborn baby.
This guideline provides an update of ‘The use of electronic fetal monitoring:

The use and interpretation of cardiotocography in intrapartum fetal
surveillance’ (Inherited clinical guideline C) issued in 2001. Inherited clinical
guideline C will be withdrawn upon publication of this new guideline.
NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 5

Woman- and baby-centred care
This guideline offers best practice advice on the care of healthy women in
labour and their babies.
Women and their families should always be treated with kindness, respect
and dignity. The views, beliefs and values of the woman, her partner and her
family in relation to her care and that of her baby should be sought and
respected at all times. The woman should be fully involved in planning her
birth setting so that care is flexible and tailored to meet her needs and those
of her baby.
Women should have the opportunity to make informed decisions about their
care and any treatment needed. If a woman does not have the capacity to
make decisions, healthcare professionals should follow the Department of
Health guidelines ‘Reference guide to consent for examination or treatment’
(2001) (available from www.dh.gov.uk).
Good communication between healthcare professionals and the woman and

her family is essential. It should be supported by the provision of evidence-
based written information tailored to the needs of the individual woman. Care
and information should be appropriate to the woman, and her cultural
practices should be taken into account. All information given should also be
accessible to women, their partners and families, taking into account any
additional needs such as physical, cognitive or sensory disabilities and
inability to speak or read English.

Key priorities for implementation
Communication
• All women in labour should be treated with respect and should be in control
of and involved in what is happening to them, and the way in which care is
given is key to this. To facilitate this, healthcare professionals and other
caregivers should establish a rapport with the labouring woman, asking her
about her wants and expectations for labour, being aware of the
importance of tone and demeanour, and of the actual words they use. This
information should be used to support and guide her through her labour.
Support in labour
• A woman in established labour should receive supportive one-to-one care.
• A woman in established labour should not be left on her own except for
short periods or at the woman’s request.
Normal labour
• Clinical intervention should not be offered or advised where labour is
progressing normally and the woman and baby are well.
Planning place of birth

• Women should be offered the choice of planning birth at home, in a
midwife-led unit or in an obstetric unit. Women should be informed:
− That giving birth is generally very safe for both the woman and her baby.
− That the available information on planning place of birth is not of good
quality, but suggests that among women who plan to give birth at home
or in a midwife-led unit there is a higher likelihood of a normal birth, with
less intervention. We do not have enough information about the possible
risks to either the woman or her baby relating to planned place of birth.
− That the obstetric unit provides direct access to obstetricians,
anaesthetists, neonatologists and other specialist care including epidural
analgesia.

− Of locally available services, the likelihood of being transferred into the
obstetric unit and the time this may take.
− That if something does go unexpectedly seriously wrong during labour at
home or in a midwife-led unit, the outcome for the woman and baby
could be worse than if they were in the obstetric unit with access to
specialised care.
− That if she has a pre-existing medical condition or has had a previous
complicated birth that makes her at higher risk of developing
complications during her next birth, she should be advised to give birth in
an obstetric unit.
• Clinical governance structures should be implemented in all places of birth
(see boxes 1 and 2).
Coping with pain

• The opportunity to labour in water is recommended for pain relief.
• Before choosing epidural analgesia, women should be informed about the
risks and benefits, and the implications for their labour.
Perineal care
• If genital trauma is identified following birth, further systematic assessment
should be carried out, including a rectal examination.
Delay in the first stage

• When delay in the established first stage of labour is confirmed in
nulliparous women, advice should be sought from an obstetrician and the
use of oxytocin should be considered. The woman should be informed that
the use of oxytocin following spontaneous or artificial rupture of the
membranes will bring forward her time of birth but will not influence the
mode of birth or other outcomes.
Instrumental birth
• Instrumental birth is an operative procedure that should be undertaken with
tested effective anaesthesia.

1 Guidance
The following guidance is based on the best available evidence. The full
guideline (www.nice.org.uk/CG055fullguideline) gives details of the methods
and the evidence used to develop the guidance (see section 5 for details).
1.1 Planning place of birth

1.1.1 Women should be offered the choice of planning birth at home, in a
midwife-led unit or in an obstetric unit. Women should be informed:
• That giving birth is generally very safe for both the woman and
her baby.
• That the available information on planning place of birth is not of
good quality, but suggests that among women who plan to give
birth at home or in a midwife-led unit there is a higher likelihood
of a normal birth, with less intervention. We do not have enough
information about the possible risks to either the woman or her
baby relating to planned place of birth.
• That the obstetric unit provides direct access to obstetricians,
anaesthetists, neonatologists and other specialist care including
epidural analgesia.
• Of locally available services, the likelihood of being transferred
into the obstetric unit and the time this may take.
• That if something does go unexpectedly seriously wrong during
labour at home or in a midwife-led unit, the outcome for the
woman and baby could be worse than if they were in the
obstetric unit with access to specialised care.
• That if she has a pre-existing medical condition or has had a
previous complicated birth that makes her at higher risk of
developing complications during her next birth, she should be
advised to give birth in an obstetric unit.

1.1.2 Clinical governance structures should be implemented in all places
of birth (see boxes 1 and 2).
Box 1 Clinical governance in all settings
Multidisciplinary clinical governance structures, of which the Labour Ward

Forum is an example, should be in place to enable the oversight of all places
of birth. These structures should include, as a minimum, midwifery (ideally a
supervisor of midwives), obstetric, anaesthetic and neonatal expertise, and
adequately supported user representation.
Rotating staff between obstetric and midwife-led units should be encouraged

in order to maintain equivalent competency and experience.
Clear referral pathways should be in place to enable midwives to inform or

seek advice from a supervisor of midwives when caring for a woman who may
have risk factors but does not wish to labour in an obstetric unit.
If an obstetric opinion is sought by either the midwife or the woman on the

appropriate place of birth, this should be obtained from a consultant
obstetrician.
All healthcare professionals should document discussions with the woman

about her chosen place of birth in the hand-held maternity notes.
In all places of birth, risk assessment in the antenatal period and when labour
commences should be subject to continuous audit.
Monthly figures of numbers of women booked for, being admitted to, being
transferred from and giving birth in each place of birth should be audited. This
should include maternal and neonatal outcomes.
The clinical governance group should be responsible for detailed root-cause

analysis of any serious maternal or neonatal adverse outcomes (for example,
intrapartum-related perinatal death or seizures in the neonatal period) and
consider any ‘near misses’ identified through risk-management systems. The
Confidential Enquiry into Maternal and Child Health (CEMACH) and the

National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA)’s ‘Seven steps to patient safety’
provide a framework for meeting clinical governance and risk-management
targets.
Data must be submitted to the national registries for either intrapartum-related

perinatal mortality or neonatal encephalopathy once these are in existence.
Box 2 Clinical governance for settings other than an obstetric unit
Clear pathways and guidelines on the indications for, and the process of
transfer to, an obstetric unit should be established. There should be no
barriers to rapid transfer in an emergency.
Clear pathways and guidelines should also be developed for the continued
care of women once they have transferred. These pathways should include
arrangements for times when the nearest obstetric or neonatal unit is closed
to admissions.
If the emergency is such that transfer is not possible, open access must be
given on-site for any appropriate staff to deal with whatever emergency has
arisen.
There should be continuous audit of the appropriateness of, the reason for
and speed of transfer. Conversely, audit also needs to consider
circumstances in which transfer was indicated but did not occur. Audit should
include time taken to see an obstetrician or neonatologist and the time from
admission to birth.

1.1.3 A national surveillance scheme which allows appropriate
comparisons, including safety and cost-effectiveness, of all places
of birth should be established to address the poor quality and lack
of coverage of current data.
1.1.4 National registries of the root-cause analysis findings relating to all

intrapartum-related deaths over 37 weeks of gestation should be
established.
1.1.5 A definition of neonatal encephalopathy should be agreed and a

national register commenced. The information collected should also
include data on transfer during labour from each of the different
birth settings.
1.1.6 Tables 1, 2, 3 and 4 should be used as part of an assessment for

choosing place of birth.
Tables 1 and 2 show medical conditions or situations in which there

is increased risk for the woman or baby during or shortly after
labour, where care in an obstetric unit would be expected to reduce
this risk.
The factors listed in tables 3 and 4 are not reasons in themselves

for advising birth within an obstetric unit but indicate that further
consideration of birth setting may be required.
These risks and the additional care that can be provided in the
obstetric unit should be discussed with the woman so that she can
make an informed choice about place of birth.

Table 1 Medical conditions indicating increased risk suggesting planned
birth at an obstetric unit
Disease area Medical condition
Cardiovascular Confirmed cardiac disease
Hypertensive disorders
Respiratory Asthma requiring an increase in treatment or hospital treatment

Cystic fibrosis
Haematological Haemoglobinopathies – sickle-cell disease, beta-thalassaemia major

History of thromboembolic disorders
Immune thrombocytopenia purpura or other platelet disorder or platelet count
below 100,000
Von Willebrand’s disease
Bleeding disorder in the woman or unborn baby
Atypical antibodies which carry a risk of haemolytic disease of the newborn
Infective Risk factors associated with group B streptococcus whereby antibiotics in

labour would be recommended
Hepatitis B/C with abnormal liver function tests
Carrier of/infected with HIV
Toxoplasmosis – women receiving treatment
Current active infection of chicken pox/rubella/genital herpes in the woman or
baby
Tuberculosis under treatment
Immune Systemic lupus erythematosus

Scleroderma
Endocrine Hyperthyroidism
Diabetes
Renal Abnormal renal function

Renal disease requiring supervision by a renal specialist
Neurological Epilepsy
Myasthenia gravis
Previous cerebrovascular accident
Gastrointestinal Liver disease associated with current abnormal liver function tests
Psychiatric Psychiatric disorder requiring current inpatient care

Table 2 Other factors indicating increased risk suggesting planned birth
at an obstetric unit
Factor Additional information
Previous Unexplained stillbirth/neonatal death or previous death related to intrapartum
complications difficulty
Previous baby with neonatal encephalopathy
Pre-eclampsia requiring preterm birth
Placental abruption with adverse outcome
Eclampsia
Uterine rupture
Primary postpartum haemorrhage requiring additional treatment or blood
transfusion
Retained placenta requiring manual removal in theatre
Caesarean section
Shoulder dystocia
Current pregnancy Multiple birth

Placenta praevia
Pre-eclampsia or pregnancy-induced hypertension
Preterm labour or preterm prelabour rupture of membranes
Placental abruption
Anaemia – haemoglobin less than 8.5 g/dl at onset of labour
Confirmed intrauterine death
Induction of labour
Substance misuse
Alcohol dependency requiring assessment or treatment
Onset of gestational diabetes
Malpresentation – breech or transverse lie
Body mass index at booking of greater than 35 kg/m2
Recurrent antepartum haemorrhage
Fetal indications Small for gestational age in this pregnancy (less than fifth centile or reduced
growth velocity on ultrasound)
Abnormal fetal heart rate (FHR)/Doppler studies
Ultrasound diagnosis of oligo-/polyhydramnios
Previous Myomectomy
gynaecological history Hysterotomy

Table 3 Medical conditions indicating individual assessment when
planning place of birth
Disease area Medical condition
Cardiovascular Cardiac disease without intrapartum implications
Haematological Atypical antibodies not putting the baby at risk of haemolytic disease
Sickle-cell trait
Thalassaemia trait
Anaemia – haemoglobin 8.5–10.5 g/dl at onset of labour
Infective Hepatitis B/C with normal liver function tests
Immune Non-specific connective tissue disorders
Endocrine Unstable hypothyroidism such that a change in treatment is required
Skeletal/neurological Spinal abnormalities

Previous fractured pelvis
Neurological deficits
Gastrointestinal Liver disease without current abnormal liver function

Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Table 4 Other factors indicating individual assessment when planning

place of birth
Factor Additional information
Previous complications Stillbirth/neonatal death with a known non-recurrent cause
Pre-eclampsia developing at term
Placental abruption with good outcome
History of previous baby more than 4.5 kg
Extensive vaginal, cervical, or third- or fourth-degree perineal trauma
Previous term baby with jaundice requiring exchange transfusion
Current pregnancy Antepartum bleeding of unknown origin (single episode after 24 weeks of
gestation)
Body mass index at booking of 30–34 kg/m2
Blood pressure of 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic on two occasions
Clinical or ultrasound suspicion of macrosomia
Para 6 or more
Recreational drug use
Under current outpatient psychiatric care
Age over 40 at booking
Fetal indications Fetal abnormality
Previous Major gynaecological surgery

gynaecological history Cone biopsy or large loop excision of the transformation zone
Fibroids

1.2 Indications for intrapartum transfer
1.2.1 The following risks and benefits should be assessed when
considering transfer to an obstetric unit, bearing in mind the
likelihood of birth during the transfer:
• indications for electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) including

abnormalities of the fetal heart rate (FHR) on intermittent
auscultation
• delay in the first or second stages of labour
• significant meconium-stained liquor
• maternal request for epidural pain relief
• obstetric emergency – antepartum haemorrhage, cord
presentation/prolapse, postpartum haemorrhage, maternal
collapse or a need for advanced neonatal resuscitation
• retained placenta
• maternal pyrexia in labour (38.0°C once or 37.5°C on two
occasions 2 hours apart)
• malpresentation or breech presentation diagnosed for the first
time at the onset of labour, taking into account imminence of
birth
• either raised diastolic blood pressure (over 90 mmHg) or raised
systolic blood pressure (over 140 mmHg) on two consecutive
readings taken 30 minutes apart
• uncertainty about the presence of a fetal heartbeat
• third- or fourth-degree tear or other complicated perineal trauma
requiring suturing.
1.3 Care throughout labour

Communication
1.3.1 All women in labour should be treated with respect and should be
in control of and involved in what is happening to them, and the
way in which care is given is key to this. To facilitate this,
healthcare professionals and other caregivers should establish a

rapport with the labouring woman, asking her about her wants and
expectations for labour, being aware of the importance of tone and
demeanour, and of the actual words they use. This information
should be used to support and guide her through her labour.
1.3.2 To establish communication with the labouring woman, healthcare

professionals should:
• Greet the woman with a smile and a personal welcome,

establish her language needs, introduce themselves and explain
their role in her care.
• Maintain a calm and confident approach so that their demeanour
reassures the woman that all is going well.
• Knock and wait before entering the woman’s room, respecting it
as her personal space, and ask others to do the same.
• Ask how the woman is feeling and whether there is anything in
particular she is worried about.
• If the woman has a written birth plan, read and discuss it with
her.
• Assess the woman’s knowledge of strategies for coping with
pain and provide balanced information to find out which available
approaches are acceptable to her.
• Encourage the woman to adapt the environment to meet her
individual needs.
• Ask her permission before all procedures and observations,
focusing on the woman rather than the technology or the
documentation.
• Show the woman and her birth partner how to summon help and
reassure her that she may do so whenever and as often as she
needs to. When leaving the room, healthcare professionals
should let her know when they will return.
• Involve the woman in any handover of care to another
professional, either when additional expertise has been brought
in or at the end of a shift.

Mobilisation
1.3.3 Women should be encouraged and helped to move and adopt
whatever positions they find most comfortable throughout labour.
Support in labour
1.3.4 A woman in established labour should receive supportive one-to-
one care.
1.3.5 A woman in established labour should not be left on her own

except for short periods or at the woman’s request.
1.3.6 Women should be encouraged to have support by birth partner(s)

of their choice.
1.3.7 Team midwifery (defined as a group of midwives providing care

and taking shared responsibility for a group of women from the
antenatal, through intrapartum to the postnatal period) is not
recommended.
Controlling gastric acidity

1.3.8 Neither H2-receptor antagonists nor antacids should be given
routinely to low-risk women.
1.3.9 Either H2-receptor antagonists or antacids should be considered

for women who receive opioids or who have or develop risk factors
that make a general anaesthetic more likely.
1.3.10 Women may drink during established labour and be informed that
isotonic drinks may be more beneficial than water.
1.3.11 Women may eat a light diet in established labour unless they have
received opioids or they develop risk factors that make a general
anaesthetic more likely.
Hygiene measures
1.3.12 Tap water may be used if cleansing is required prior to vaginal
examination.

1.3.13 Routine hygiene measures taken by staff caring for women in
labour, including standard hand hygiene and single-use non-sterile
gloves, are appropriate to reduce cross-contamination between
women, babies and healthcare professionals.
1.3.14 Selection of protective equipment should be based on an

assessment of the risk of transmission of microorganisms to the
woman, and the risk of contamination of the healthcare
practitioner’s clothing and skin by women’s blood, body fluids,
secretions or excretions 1 .
1.4 Coping with pain in labour: non-epidural

Attitudes to pain and pain relief in childbirth
1.4.1 Healthcare professionals should consider how their own values and
beliefs inform their attitude to coping with pain in labour and ensure
their care supports the woman’s choice.
Pain-relieving strategies
1.4.2 Women who choose to use breathing and relaxation techniques in
labour should be supported in their choice.
1.4.3 Women who choose to use massage techniques in labour that

have been taught to birth partners should be supported in their
choice.
1.4.4 The opportunity to labour in water is recommended for pain relief.
1.4.5 For women labouring in water, the temperature of the woman and
the water should be monitored hourly to ensure that the woman is
comfortable and not becoming pyrexial. The temperature of the
water should not be above 37.5°C.
1
This recommendation is from ‘Infection control: prevention of healthcare-associated infection
in primary and community care’ (NICE clinical guideline 2).

1.4.6 Any bath or birthing pool should be kept clean using a protocol
agreed with the microbiology department and, in the case of
birthing pools, in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
1.4.7 The use of injected water papules is not recommended.
1.4.8 Acupuncture, acupressure and hypnosis should not be provided,

but women who wish to use these techniques should not be
prevented from doing so.
1.4.9 The playing of music of the woman’s choice in the labour ward
should be supported.
Non-pharmacological analgesia
1.4.10 Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) should not be
offered to women in established labour.
Inhalational analgesia
1.4.11 Entonox (a 50:50 mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide) should be
available in all birth settings as it may reduce pain in labour, but
women should be informed that it may make them feel nauseous
and light-headed.
Intravenous and intramuscular opioids

1.4.12 Pethidine, diamorphine or other opioids should be available in all
birth settings. Women should be informed that these will provide
limited pain relief during labour and may have significant side
effects for both the woman (drowsiness, nausea and vomiting) and
her baby (short-term respiratory depression and drowsiness which
may last several days).
1.4.13 Women should be informed that pethidine, diamorphine or other

opioids may interfere with breastfeeding.
1.4.14 If an intravenous or intramuscular opioid is used, it should be

administered with an antiemetic.

1.4.15 Women should not enter water (a birthing pool or bath) within
2 hours of opioid administration or if they feel drowsy.
1.5 Pain relief in labour: regional analgesia

Information about regional analgesia
1.5.1 Before choosing epidural analgesia, women should be informed
about the risks and benefits, and the implications for their labour.
1.5.2 This information about choosing epidural analgesia should include

the following:
• It is only available in obstetric units.

• It provides more effective pain relief than opioids.
• It is associated with a longer second stage of labour and an
increased chance of vaginal instrumental birth.
• It is not associated with long-term backache.
• It is not associated with a longer first stage of labour or an
increased chance of caesarean birth.
• It will be accompanied by a more intensive level of monitoring
and intravenous access.
• Modern epidural solutions contain opioids and, whatever the
route of administration, all opioids cross the placenta and in
larger doses (greater than 100 micrograms in total) may cause
short-term respiratory depression in the baby and make the baby
drowsy.
Timing of regional analgesia

1.5.3 Women in labour who desire regional analgesia should not be
denied it, including women in severe pain in the latent first stage of
labour.
Care and observations for women with regional analgesia

1.5.4 Intravenous access should always be secured prior to commencing
regional analgesia.

1.5.5 Preloading and maintenance fluid infusion need not be
administered routinely before establishing low-dose epidural
analgesia and combined spinal–epidural analgesia.
1.5.6 The following additional observations should be undertaken for

women with regional analgesia:
• During establishment of regional analgesia or after further

boluses (10 ml or more of low-dose solutions) blood pressure
should be measured every 5 minutes for 15 minutes.
• If the woman is not pain free 30 minutes after each
administration of local anaesthetic/opioid solution, the
anaesthetist should be recalled.
• Hourly assessment of the level of the sensory block should be
undertaken.
1.5.7 Women with regional analgesia should be encouraged to move and
adopt whatever upright positions they find comfortable throughout
labour.
1.5.8 Once established, regional analgesia should be continued until

after completion of the third stage of labour and any necessary
perineal repair.
1.5.9 Upon confirmation of full cervical dilatation in women with regional

analgesia, unless the woman has an urge to push or the baby’s
head is visible, pushing should be delayed for at least 1 hour and
longer if the woman wishes, after which pushing during
contractions should be actively encouraged.
1.5.10 Following the diagnosis of full dilatation in a woman with regional

analgesia, a plan should be agreed with the woman in order to
ensure that birth will have occurred within 4 hours regardless of
parity.
1.5.11 Oxytocin should not be used as a matter of routine in the second

stage of labour for women with regional analgesia.

1.5.12 Continuous EFM is recommended for at least 30 minutes during
establishment of regional analgesia and after administration of
each further bolus of 10 ml or more.
For complicated labour: second stage, see section 1.14.
Establishing and maintaining regional analgesia

1.5.13 Either epidural or combined spinal–epidural analgesia is
recommended for establishing regional analgesia in labour.
1.5.14 If rapid analgesia is required, combined spinal–epidural analgesia

is recommended.
1.5.15 It is recommended that combined spinal–epidural analgesia is

established with bupivacaine and fentanyl.
1.5.16 It is recommended that epidural analgesia is established with a low-

concentration local anaesthetic and opioid solution with, for
example, 10–15 ml of 0.0625–0.1% bupivacaine with
1–2 micrograms per ml fentanyl. The initial dose of local
anaesthetic plus opioid is essentially a test dose and as such
should be administered cautiously to ensure that inadvertent
intrathecal injection has not occurred.
1.5.17 Low-concentration local anaesthetic and opioid solutions

(0.0625–0.1% bupivacaine or equivalent combined with
2.0 micrograms per ml fentanyl) are recommended for maintaining
epidural analgesia in labour.
1.5.18 High concentrations of local anaesthetic solutions (0.25% or above

of bupivacaine or equivalent) should not be used routinely for either
establishing or maintaining epidural analgesia.
1.5.19 Either patient-controlled epidural analgesia or intermittent bolus

given by healthcare professionals are the preferred modes of
administration for maintenance of epidural analgesia.

1.6 Normal labour: first stage
1.6.1 Clinical intervention should not be offered or advised where labour
is progressing normally and the woman and baby are well.
1.6.2 In all stages of labour, women who have left the normal care
pathway due to the development of complications can return to it
if/when the complication is resolved.
Definition of the first stage

1.6.3 For the purposes of this guideline, the following definitions of labour
are recommended:
• Latent first stage of labour – a period of time, not necessarily

continuous, when:
− there are painful contractions, and
− there is some cervical change, including cervical effacement
and dilatation up to 4 cm.
• Established first stage of labour – when:
− there are regular painful contractions, and
− there is progressive cervical dilatation from 4 cm.
Duration of the first stage

1.6.4 Women should be informed that, while the length of established
first stage of labour varies between women, first labours last on
average 8 hours and are unlikely to last over 18 hours. Second and
subsequent labours last on average 5 hours and are unlikely to last
over 12 hours.
Definition of delay in the established first stage (see section 1.13)

1.6.5 A diagnosis of delay in the established first stage of labour needs to
take into consideration all aspects of progress in labour and should
include:
• cervical dilatation of less than 2 cm in 4 hours for first labours

• cervical dilatation of less than 2 cm in 4 hours or a slowing in the
progress of labour for second or subsequent labours
• descent and rotation of the fetal head
• changes in the strength, duration and frequency of uterine
contractions.
Observations on presentation in suspected labour

1.6.6 The initial assessment of a woman by a midwife should include:
• listening to her story, considering her emotional and

psychological needs, and reviewing her clinical records
• physical observation – temperature, pulse, blood pressure,
urinalysis
• length, strength and frequency of contractions
• abdominal palpation – fundal height, lie, presentation, position
and station
• vaginal loss – show, liquor, blood
• assessment of the woman’s pain, including her wishes for
coping with labour along with the range of options for pain relief.
In addition:
• The FHR should be auscultated for a minimum of 1 minute

immediately after a contraction. The maternal pulse should be
palpated to differentiate between maternal and FHR.
• If the woman does not appear to be in established labour, after a
period of assessment it may be helpful to offer a vaginal
examination.
• If the woman appears to be in established labour, a vaginal
examination should be offered.
1.6.7 Healthcare professionals who conduct vaginal examinations

should:
• be sure that the vaginal examination is really necessary and will

add important information to the decision-making process

• be aware that for many women who may already be in pain,
highly anxious and in an unfamiliar environment, vaginal
examinations can be very distressing
• ensure the woman’s consent, privacy, dignity and comfort
• explain the reason for the examination and what will be involved,
and
• explain the findings and their impact sensitively to the woman.
1.6.8 Some women have pain without cervical change. Although these
women are described as not being in labour, they may well
consider themselves ‘in labour’ by their own definition. Women who
seek advice or attend hospital with painful contractions but who are
not in established labour should be offered individualised support
and occasionally analgesia, and encouraged to remain at or return
home.
1.6.9 The use of admission cardiotocography (CTG) in low-risk

pregnancy is not recommended in any birth setting.
Observations during the established first stage

1.6.10 Verbal assessment using a numerical pain score is not
recommended routinely.
1.6.11 A pictorial record of labour (partogram) should be used once labour

is established.
1.6.12 Where the partogram includes an action line, the World Health
Organization recommendation of a 4-hour action line should be
used 2 .
2
Anonymous (1994) World Health Organization partograph in management of labour. World
Health Organization Maternal Health and Safe Motherhood Programme. Lancet 343 (8910):
1399–404. See also
www.who.int/reproductive-health/impac/Clinical_Principles/Normal_labour_C57_C76.html

1.6.13 Observations by a midwife during the first stage of labour include:
• 4-hourly temperature and blood pressure

• hourly pulse
• half-hourly documentation of frequency of contractions
• frequency of emptying the bladder
• vaginal examination offered 4-hourly, or where there is concern
about progress or in response to the woman’s wishes (after
abdominal palpation and assessment of vaginal loss).
In addition:
• Intermittent auscultation of the fetal heart after a contraction

should occur for at least 1 minute, at least every 15 minutes, and
the rate should be recorded as an average. The maternal pulse
should be palpated if a FHR abnormality is detected to
differentiate the two heart rates. (See recommendations 1.6.19–
24 for reasons to transfer to continuous EFM.)
1.6.14 Ongoing consideration should be given to the woman’s emotional

and psychological needs, including her desire for pain relief.
1.6.15 Women should be encouraged to communicate their need for

analgesia at any point during labour.
Possible routine interventions in the first stage

1.6.16 The package known as active management of labour (one-to-one
continuous support; strict definition of established labour; early
routine amniotomy; routine 2-hourly vaginal examination; oxytocin if
labour becomes slow) should not be offered routinely.
1.6.17 In normally progressing labour, amniotomy should not be

performed routinely.
1.6.18 Combined early amniotomy with use of oxytocin should not be used
routinely.

Fetal heart assessment and reasons for transfer to continuous
electronic fetal monitoring
1.6.19 Intermittent auscultation of the FHR is recommended for low-risk
women in established labour in any birth setting.
1.6.20 Initial auscultation of the fetal heart is recommended at first contact

in early labour and at each further assessment undertaken to
determine whether labour has become established.
1.6.21 Once a woman is in established labour, intermittent auscultation of

the fetal heart after a contraction should be continued as detailed in
recommendation 1.6.13.
1.6.22 Intermittent auscultation can be undertaken by either Doppler

ultrasound or Pinard stethoscope.
1.6.23 Changing from intermittent auscultation to continuous EFM in low-

risk women should be advised for the following reasons:
• significant meconium-stained liquor, and this change should also

be considered for light meconium-stained liquor (see
recommendations 1.11.1 and 1.11.2)
• abnormal FHR detected by intermittent auscultation (less than
110 beats per minute [bpm]; greater than 160 bpm; any
decelerations after a contraction)
• maternal pyrexia (defined as 38.0°C once or 37.5°C on two
occasions 2 hours apart)
• fresh bleeding developing in labour
• oxytocin use for augmentation
• the woman’s request.
1.6.24 Women should be informed that continuous EFM will restrict their
mobility.

1.7 Normal labour: second stage
Definition of the second stage
1.7.1 For the purposes of this guideline, the following definitions of labour
are recommended:
• Passive second stage of labour:

− the finding of full dilatation of the cervix prior to or in the
absence of involuntary expulsive contractions.
• Onset of the active second stage of labour:
− the baby is visible
− expulsive contractions with a finding of full dilatation of the
cervix or other signs of full dilatation of the cervix
− active maternal effort following confirmation of full dilatation of
the cervix in the absence of expulsive contractions.
Duration and definition of delay in the second stage (see section 1.14)
1.7.2 Nulliparous women:
• Birth would be expected to take place within 3 hours of the start

of the active second stage in most women.
• A diagnosis of delay in the active second stage should be made
when it has lasted 2 hours and women should be referred to a
healthcare professional trained to undertake an operative
vaginal birth if birth is not imminent.
1.7.3 Parous women:
• Birth would be expected to take place within 2 hours of the start

of the active second stage in most women.
when it has lasted 1 hour and women should be referred to a
healthcare professional trained to undertake an operative
vaginal birth if birth is not imminent.

1.7.4 If full dilatation of the cervix has been diagnosed in a woman
without epidural analgesia, but she does not get an urge to push,
further assessment should take place after 1 hour.
Oxytocin in the second stage

1.7.5 Consideration should be given to the use of oxytocin, with the offer
of regional analgesia, for nulliparous women if contractions are
inadequate at the onset of the second stage.
Observations during the second stage

1.7.6 All observations should be documented on the partogram.
Observations by a midwife of a woman in the second stage of
labour include:
• hourly blood pressure and pulse

• continued 4-hourly temperature
• vaginal examination offered hourly in the active second stage or
in response to the woman’s wishes (after abdominal palpation
and assessment of vaginal loss)
• half-hourly documentation of the frequency of contractions
• frequency of emptying the bladder
• ongoing consideration of the woman’s emotional and
psychological needs.
In addition:
• Assessment of progress should include maternal behaviour,

effectiveness of pushing and fetal wellbeing, taking into account
fetal position and station at the onset of the second stage. These
factors will assist in deciding the timing of further vaginal
examination and the need for obstetric review.
• Intermittent auscultation of the fetal heart should occur after a
contraction for at least 1 minute, at least every 5 minutes. The
maternal pulse should be palpated if there is suspected fetal

bradycardia or any other FHR anomaly to differentiate the two
heart rates.
• Ongoing consideration should be given to the woman’s position,
hydration, coping strategies and pain relief throughout the
second stage.
Women’s position and pushing in the second stage

1.7.7 Women should be discouraged from lying supine or semi-supine in
the second stage of labour and should be encouraged to adopt any
other position that they find most comfortable.
1.7.8 Women should be informed that in the second stage they should be
guided by their own urge to push.
1.7.9 If pushing is ineffective or if requested by the woman, strategies to

assist birth can be used, such as support, change of position,
emptying of the bladder and encouragement.
Intrapartum interventions to reduce perineal trauma

1.7.10 Perineal massage should not be performed by healthcare
professionals in the second stage of labour.
1.7.11 Either the ‘hands on’ (guarding the perineum and flexing the baby’s
head) or the ‘hands poised’ (with hands off the perineum and
baby’s head but in readiness) technique can be used to facilitate
spontaneous birth.
1.7.12 Lidocaine spray should not be used to reduce pain in the second
stage of labour.
1.7.13 A routine episiotomy should not be carried out during spontaneous

vaginal birth.
1.7.14 Where an episiotomy is performed, the recommended technique is

a mediolateral episiotomy originating at the vaginal fourchette and
usually directed to the right side. The angle to the vertical axis

should be between 45 and 60 degrees at the time of the
episiotomy.
1.7.15 An episiotomy should be performed if there is a clinical need such

as instrumental birth or suspected fetal compromise.
1.7.16 Tested effective analgesia should be provided prior to carrying out

an episiotomy, except in an emergency due to acute fetal
compromise.
1.7.17 Women with a history of severe perineal trauma should be

informed that their risk of repeat severe perineal trauma is not
increased in a subsequent birth, compared with women having their
first baby.
1.7.18 Episiotomy should not be offered routinely at vaginal birth following

previous third- or fourth-degree trauma.
1.7.19 In order for a woman who has had previous third- or fourth-degree
trauma to make an informed choice, discussion with her about the
future mode of birth should encompass:
• current urgency or incontinence symptoms

• the degree of previous trauma
• risk of recurrence
• the success of the repair undertaken
• the psychological effect of the previous trauma
• management of her labour.
1.7.20 Women with infibulated genital mutilation should be informed of the

risks of difficulty with vaginal examination, catheterisation and
application of fetal scalp electrodes. They should also be informed
of the risks of delay in the second stage and spontaneous
laceration together with the need for an anterior episiotomy and the
possible need for defibulation in labour.

Water birth
1.7.21 Women should be informed that there is insufficient high-quality
evidence to either support or discourage giving birth in water.
1.8 Normal labour: third stage

Definition of the third stage
1.8.1 For the purposes of this guideline, the following definitions are
recommended:
• The third stage of labour is the time from the birth of the baby to
the expulsion of the placenta and membranes.
• Active management of the third stage involves a package of care
which includes all of these three components:
− routine use of uterotonic drugs
− early clamping and cutting of the cord
− controlled cord traction.
• Physiological management of the third stage involves a package
of care which includes all of these three components:
− no routine use of uterotonic drugs
− no clamping of the cord until pulsation has ceased
− delivery of the placenta by maternal effort.
Prolonged third stage

1.8.2 The third stage of labour is diagnosed as prolonged if not
completed within 30 minutes of the birth of the baby with active
management and 60 minutes with physiological management.
Observations in the third stage

1.8.3 Observations by a midwife of a woman in the third stage of labour
include:
• her general physical condition, as shown by her colour,

respiration and her own report of how she feels
• vaginal blood loss.

In addition, in the presence of haemorrhage, retained placenta or
maternal collapse, frequent observations to assess the need for
resuscitation are required.
Physiological and active management of the third stage

1.8.4 Active management of the third stage is recommended, which
includes the use of oxytocin (10 international units [IU] by
intramuscular injection), followed by early clamping and cutting of
the cord and controlled cord traction 3 .
1.8.5 Women should be informed that active management of the third

stage reduces the risk of maternal haemorrhage and shortens the
third stage.
1.8.6 Women at low risk of postpartum haemorrhage who request

physiological management of the third stage should be supported
in their choice.
1.8.7 Changing from physiological management to active management of

the third stage is indicated in the case of:
• haemorrhage
• failure to deliver the placenta within 1 hour
• the woman’s desire to artificially shorten the third stage.
1.8.8 Pulling the cord or palpating the uterus should only be carried out
after administration of oxytocin as part of active management.
1.8.9 In the third stage of labour neither umbilical oxytocin infusion nor
prostaglandin should be used routinely.
3
At the time of publication (September 2007), oxytocin did not have UK marketing
authorisation for this indication. Informed consent should be obtained and documented.

1.9 Normal labour: care of the baby and woman
immediately after birth
Initial assessment of the newborn baby and mother–infant bonding
1.9.1 The Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes should be recorded routinely
for all births.
1.9.2 If the baby is born in poor condition (the Apgar score at 1 minute is
5 or less), then the time to the onset of regular respirations should
be recorded and the cord double-clamped to allow paired cord
blood gases to be taken. The Apgar score should continue to be
recorded until the baby’s condition is stable.
1.9.3 Women should be encouraged to have skin-to-skin contact with

their babies as soon as possible after the birth 4 .
1.9.4 In order to keep the baby warm, he or she should be dried and
covered with a warm, dry blanket or towel while maintaining skin-to-
skin contact with the woman.
1.9.5 Separation of a woman and her baby within the first hour of the
birth for routine postnatal procedures, for example weighing,
measuring and bathing, should be avoided unless these measures
are requested by the woman, or are necessary for the immediate
care of the baby4.
1.9.6 Initiation of breastfeeding should be encouraged as soon as

possible after the birth, ideally within 1 hour4.
1.9.7 Head circumference, body temperature and birth weight should be

recorded soon after the first hour following birth.
1.9.8 An initial examination should be undertaken by a healthcare

professional to detect any major physical abnormality and to
identify any problems that require referral.
4
Recommendations relating to immediate postnatal care (within 2 hours of birth) have been
extracted from ‘Routine postnatal care of women and their babies’ (NICE clinical guideline
37). Please see NICE clinical guideline 37 for further guidance on care after birth.

1.9.9 Any examination or treatment of the baby should be undertaken
with the consent and in the presence of the parents or, if this is not
possible, with their knowledge.
Initial assessment of the woman following birth

1.9.10 Observations taken following the birth of the baby should include:
• maternal observation – temperature, pulse, blood pressure,

uterine contraction, lochia
• examination of placenta and membranes – assessment of their
condition, structure, cord vessels and completeness
• early assessment of maternal emotional/psychological condition
in response to labour and birth
• successful voiding of the woman’s bladder.
Perineal care
1.9.11 Perineal or genital trauma caused by either tearing or episiotomy
should be defined as follows:
• first degree – injury to skin only

• second degree – injury to the perineal muscles but not the anal
sphincter
• third degree – injury to the perineum involving the anal sphincter
complex:
− 3a – less than 50% of external anal sphincter thickness torn
− 3b – more than 50% of external anal sphincter thickness torn
− 3c – internal anal sphincter torn.
• fourth degree – injury to the perineum involving the anal

sphincter complex (external and internal anal sphincter) and anal
epithelium.
1.9.12 Before assessing for genital trauma, healthcare professionals

should:
• explain to the woman what they plan to do and why

• offer inhalational analgesia
• ensure good lighting
• position the woman so that she is comfortable and so that the
genital structures can be seen clearly.
1.9.13 The initial examination should be performed gently and with

sensitivity and may be done in the immediate period following birth.
1.9.14 If genital trauma is identified following birth, further systematic

assessment should be carried out, including a rectal examination.
1.9.15 Systematic assessment of genital trauma should include:
• further explanation of what the healthcare professional plans to

do and why
• confirmation by the woman that tested effective local or regional
analgesia is in place
• visual assessment of the extent of perineal trauma to include the
structures involved, the apex of the injury and assessment of
bleeding
• a rectal examination to assess whether there has been any
damage to the external or internal anal sphincter if there is any
suspicion that the perineal muscles are damaged.
1.9.16 The timing of this systematic assessment should not interfere with
mother–infant bonding unless the woman has bleeding that
requires urgent attention.
1.9.17 The woman should usually be in lithotomy to allow adequate visual

assessment of the degree of the trauma and for the repair. This
position should only be maintained for as long as is necessary for
the systematic assessment and repair.
1.9.18 The woman should be referred to a more experienced healthcare

professional if uncertainty exists as to the nature or extent of
trauma sustained.

1.9.19 The systematic assessment and its results should be fully
documented, possibly pictorially.
1.9.20 All relevant healthcare professionals should attend training in

perineal/genital assessment and repair, and ensure that they
maintain these skills.
1.9.21 Repair of the perineum should be undertaken as soon as possible

to minimise the risk of infection and blood loss.
1.9.22 Perineal repair should only be undertaken with tested effective

analgesia in place using infiltration with up to 20 ml of 1% lidocaine
or equivalent, or topping up the epidural (spinal anaesthesia may
be necessary).
1.9.23 If the woman reports inadequate pain relief at any point this should
immediately be addressed.
1.9.24 Women should be advised that in the case of first-degree trauma,

the wound should be sutured in order to improve healing, unless
the skin edges are well opposed.
1.9.25 Women should be advised that in the case of second-degree

trauma, the muscle should be sutured in order to improve healing.
1.9.26 If the skin is opposed following suturing of the muscle in second-

degree trauma, there is no need to suture it.
1.9.27 Where the skin does require suturing, this should be undertaken
using a continuous subcuticular technique.
1.9.28 Perineal repair should be undertaken using a continuous non-

locked suturing technique for the vaginal wall and muscle layer.
1.9.29 An absorbable synthetic suture material should be used to suture

the perineum.

1.9.30 Rectal non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be offered
routinely following perineal repair of first- and second-degree
trauma provided these drugs are not contraindicated.
1.9.31 The following basic principles should be observed when performing

perineal repairs:
• Perineal trauma should be repaired using aseptic techniques.

• Equipment should be checked and swabs and needles counted
before and after the procedure.
• Good lighting is essential to see and identify the structures
involved.
• Difficult trauma should be repaired by an experienced
practitioner in theatre under regional or general anaesthesia. An
indwelling catheter should be inserted for 24 hours to prevent
urinary retention.
• Good anatomical alignment of the wound should be achieved,
and consideration given to the cosmetic results.
• Rectal examination should be carried out after completing the
repair to ensure that suture material has not been accidentally
inserted through the rectal mucosa.
• Following completion of the repair, an accurate detailed account
should be documented covering the extent of the trauma, the
method of repair and the materials used.
• Information should be given to the woman regarding the extent
of the trauma, pain relief, diet, hygiene and the importance of
pelvic-floor exercises.
1.10 Prelabour rupture of the membranes at term

1.10.1 There is no reason to carry out a speculum examination with a
certain history of rupture of the membranes at term.
1.10.2 Women with an uncertain history of prelabour rupture of the

membranes should be offered a speculum examination to

determine whether their membranes have ruptured. Digital vaginal
examination in the absence of contractions should be avoided.
1.10.3 Women presenting with prelabour rupture of the membranes at

term should be advised that:
• the risk of serious neonatal infection is 1% rather than 0.5% for

women with intact membranes
• 60% of women with prelabour rupture of the membranes will go
into labour within 24 hours
• induction of labour 5 is appropriate approximately 24 hours after
rupture of the membranes.
1.10.4 Until the induction is commenced or if expectant management

beyond 24 hours is chosen by the woman:
• lower vaginal swabs and maternal C-reactive protein should not

be offered
• to detect any infection that may be developing women should be
advised to record their temperature every 4 hours during waking
hours and to report immediately any change in the colour or
smell of their vaginal loss
• women should be informed that bathing or showering are not
associated with an increase in infection, but that having sexual
intercourse may be.
1.10.5 Fetal movement and heart rate should be assessed at initial

contact and then every 24 hours following rupture of the
membranes while the woman is not in labour, and the woman
should be advised to report immediately any decrease in fetal
movements.
1.10.6 If labour has not started 24 hours after rupture of the membranes,
women should be advised to give birth where there is access to
5
Care of women who have their labour induced is covered by ’Induction of labour’ (Inherited
clinical guideline D).

neonatal services and advised to stay in hospital for at least
12 hours following the birth.
1.10.7 If there are no signs of infection in the woman, antibiotics should

not be given to either the woman or the baby, even if the
membranes have been ruptured for over 24 hours.
1.10.8 If there is evidence of infection in the woman, a full course of

broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics should be prescribed.
1.10.9 Women with prelabour rupture of the membranes should be asked

to inform their healthcare professionals immediately of any
concerns they have about their baby’s wellbeing in the first 5 days
following birth, particularly in the first 12 hours when the risk of
infection is greatest.
1.10.10 Blood, cerebrospinal fluid and/or surface culture tests should not be
performed in an asymptomatic baby.
1.10.11 Asymptomatic term babies born to women with prelabour rupture of

the membranes (more than 24 hours before labour) should be
closely observed for the first 12 hours of life (at 1 hour, 2 hours and
then 2-hourly for 10 hours). These observations should include:
• general wellbeing
• chest movements and nasal flare
• skin colour including perfusion, by testing capillary refill
• feeding
• muscle tone
• temperature
• heart rate and respiration.
1.10.12 A baby with any symptom of possible sepsis, or born to a woman

who has evidence of chorioamnionitis, should immediately be
referred to a neonatal care specialist.

1.11 Meconium-stained liquor
Monitoring and treatment of women with meconium-stained liquor
1.11.1 Continuous EFM should be advised for women with significant
meconium-stained liquor, which is defined as either dark green or
black amniotic fluid that is thick or tenacious, or any meconium-
stained amniotic fluid containing lumps of meconium.
1.11.2 Continuous EFM should be considered for women with light

meconium-stained liquor depending on a risk assessment which
should include as a minimum their stage of labour, volume of liquor,
parity, the FHR and, where applicable, transfer pathway.
1.11.3 Amnioinfusion should not be used for the treatment of women with
meconium-stained liquor.
Resuscitation of babies with meconium-stained liquor

1.11.4 If significant meconium-stained liquor is identified, healthcare
professionals trained in FBS should be available in labour and
healthcare professionals trained in advanced neonatal life support
should be readily available for the birth.
1.11.5 Suctioning of the nasopharynx and oropharynx prior to birth of the

shoulders and trunk should not be carried out.
1.11.6 The upper airways should only be suctioned if the baby has thick or
tenacious meconium present in the oropharynx.
1.11.7 If the baby has depressed vital signs, laryngoscopy and suction
under direct vision should be carried out by a healthcare
professional trained in advanced neonatal life support.
1.11.8 If there has been significant meconium staining and the baby is in
good condition, the baby should be closely observed for signs of
respiratory distress. These observations should be performed at
1 and 2 hours of age and then 2-hourly until 12 hours of age, and
should include:

• general wellbeing
• chest movements and nasal flare
• skin colour including perfusion, by testing capillary refill
• feeding
• muscle tone
• temperature
• heart rate and respiration.
1.11.9 If there has been light meconium staining, the baby should be
similarly observed by the healthcare professional at 1 and 2 hours
and should be reviewed by a neonatologist if the baby’s condition
causes concern at any time.
1.12 Complicated labour: monitoring babies in labour 6

EFM and record-keeping
1.12.1 In order to ensure accurate record-keeping regarding EFM:
• The date and time clocks on the EFM machine should be

correctly set.
• Traces should be labelled with the mother’s name, date and
hospital number.
• Any intrapartum events that may affect the FHR should be noted
at the time on the FHR trace, which should be signed and the
date and time noted (for example, vaginal examination, FBS or
siting of an epidural).
• Any member of staff who is asked to provide an opinion on a
trace should note their findings on both the trace and the
woman’s medical records along with the date, time and
signature.
• Following birth, the healthcare professional should sign and note
the date, time and mode of birth on the FHR trace.
6
This guideline updates and replaces ‘The use of electronic fetal monitoring: The use and
interpretation of cardiotocography in intrapartum fetal surveillance’ (Inherited clinical guideline
C), issued in 2001.

• The FHR trace should be stored securely with the woman’s
medical records at the end of the monitoring process.
Interpretation of FHR traces/cardiotocographs

1.12.2 The recommended definitions and classifications of the FHR
trace/cardiotocograph produced during EFM are shown in tables 5
and 6.
Table 5 Definition of normal, suspicious and pathological FHR traces

Category Definition
Normal An FHR trace in which all four features are classified as reassuring
Suspicious An FHR trace with one feature classified as non-reassuring and the remaining features
classified as reassuring
Pathological An FHR trace with two or more features classified as non-reassuring or one or more
classified as abnormal

Table 6 Classification of FHR trace features
Feature Baseline (bpm) Variability (bpm) Decelerations Accelerations
Reassuring 110–160 ≥5 None Present
Non- 100–109 < 5 for Typical variable The absence of

reassuring 161–180 40–90 minutes decelerations with over 50% accelerations with
of contractions, occurring for otherwise normal
over 90 minutes trace is of uncertain
Single prolonged significance
deceleration for up to
3 minutes
Abnormal < 100 < 5 for 90 minutes Either atypical variable

> 180 decelerations with over 50%
Sinusoidal of contractions or late
pattern decelerations, both for over
≥ 10 minutes 30 minutes
Single prolonged
deceleration for more than
3 minutes
Further information about classifying FHR traces is given below.

• If repeated accelerations are present with reduced variability, the FHR trace should be regarded as
reassuring.
• True early uniform decelerations are rare and benign, and therefore they are not significant.
• Most decelerations in labour are variable.
• If a bradycardia occurs in the baby for more than 3 minutes, urgent medical aid should be sought
and preparations should be made to urgently expedite the birth of the baby, classified as a category
1 birth. This could include moving the woman to theatre if the fetal heart has not recovered by
9 minutes. If the fetal heart recovers within 9 minutes the decision to deliver should be reconsidered
in conjunction with the woman if reasonable.
• A tachycardia in the baby of 160–180 bpm, where accelerations are present and no other adverse
features appear, should not be regarded as suspicious. However, an increase in the baseline heart
rate, even within the normal range, with other non-reassuring or abnormal features should increase
concern.
1.12.3 For women having continuous EFM, a documented systematic

assessment based on these definitions and classifications should
be undertaken every hour.
1.12.4 During episodes of abnormal FHR patterns when the woman is

lying supine she should be advised to adopt the left-lateral position.
1.12.5 Prolonged use of maternal facial oxygen therapy may be harmful to

the baby and should be avoided. There is no research evidence
evaluating the benefits or risks associated with the short-term use
of maternal facial oxygen therapy in cases of suspected fetal
compromise.

1.12.6 In the presence of abnormal FHR patterns and uterine
hypercontractility not secondary to oxytocin infusion, tocolysis
should be considered. A suggested regimen is subcutaneous
terbutaline 0.25 mg 7 .
1.12.7 In cases of suspected or confirmed acute fetal compromise,

delivery should be accomplished within a time appropriate for the
clinical condition.
1.12.8 Continuous EFM in the presence of oxytocin:
• If the FHR trace is normal, oxytocin may be continued until the

woman is experiencing 4 or 5 contractions every 10 minutes.
Oxytocin should be reduced if contractions occur more
frequently than 5 contractions in 10 minutes.
• If the FHR trace is classified as suspicious, this should be
reviewed by an obstetrician and the oxytocin dose should only
continue to increase to achieve 4 or 5 contractions every
10 minutes.
• If the FHR trace is classified as pathological, oxytocin should be
stopped and a full assessment of the fetal condition undertaken
by an obstetrician before oxytocin is recommenced.
Adjuncts to the use of continuous EFM including FBS

1.12.9 Digital stimulation of the fetal scalp by the healthcare professional
during a vaginal examination should be considered as an adjunct to
continuous EFM.
1.12.10 If fetal death is suspected despite the presence of an apparently

recorded FHR, then fetal viability should be confirmed with real-
time ultrasound assessment.
1.12.11 FBS should be advised in the presence of a pathological FHR

trace, unless there is clear evidence of acute compromise.
7
At the time of publication (September 2007), terbutaline did not have UK marketing
authorisation for this indication. Informed consent should be obtained and documented.

1.12.12 Where assisted birth is contemplated because of an abnormal FHR
pattern, in cases of suspected fetal acidosis FBS should be
undertaken in the absence of technical difficulties or any
contraindications.
1.12.13 Where there is clear evidence of acute fetal compromise (for

example, prolonged deceleration greater than 3 minutes), FBS
should not be undertaken and urgent preparations to expedite birth
should be made.
1.12.14 Fetal blood samples should be taken with the woman in the left-
lateral position.
1.12.15 The classification of FBS results shown in table 7 is recommended.
Table 7 The classification of fetal blood sample (FBS) results

FBS result (pH) Interpretation
≥ 7.25 Normal FBS result
7.21–7.24 Borderline FBS result
≤ 7.20 Abnormal FBS result
These results should be interpreted taking into account the previous pH measurement, the rate of
progress in labour and the clinical features of the woman and baby.
1.12.16 After an abnormal FBS result, consultant obstetric advice should be

sought.
1.12.17 After a normal FBS result, sampling should be repeated no more

than 1 hour later if the FHR trace remains pathological, or sooner if
there are further abnormalities.
1.12.18 After a borderline FBS result, sampling should be repeated no

more than 30 minutes later if the FHR trace remains pathological or
sooner if there are further abnormalities.
1.12.19 The time taken to take a fetal blood sample needs to be considered
when planning repeat samples.

1.12.20 If the FHR trace remains unchanged and the FBS result is stable
after the second test, a third/further sample may be deferred unless
additional abnormalities develop on the trace.
1.12.21 Where a third FBS is considered necessary, consultant obstetric

opinion should be sought.
1.12.22 Contraindications to FBS include:
• maternal infection (for example, HIV, hepatitis viruses and

herpes simplex virus)
• fetal bleeding disorders (for example, haemophilia)
• prematurity (less than 34 weeks).
Risk management when using continuous EFM in labour

1.12.23 Clinicians should take into account the time that it will take to
achieve birth by both instrumental vaginal birth and caesarean
section when making decisions regarding concern over fetal
wellbeing during labour.
1.12.24 FHR traces should be kept for 25 years and, where possible, stored
electronically.
1.12.25 In cases where there is concern that the baby may suffer
developmental delay, FHR traces should be photocopied and
stored indefinitely in case of possible adverse outcomes.
1.12.26 Tracer systems should be available for all FHR traces if stored
separately from women’s records.
1.12.27 Tracer systems should be developed to ensure that FHR traces

removed for any purpose (such as risk management or for teaching
purposes) can always be located.
1.12.28 Paired cord blood gases do not need to be taken routinely. They
should be taken when there has been concern about the baby
either in labour or immediately following birth.

1.12.29 An additional clamp to facilitate double-clamping of the cord should
be available at all birth settings.
1.13 Complicated labour: first stage

Definition of delay in the established first stage
A diagnosis of delay in the established first stage of labour needs to take into
consideration all aspects of progress in labour and should include:
• cervical dilatation of less than 2 cm in 4 hours for first labours
• cervical dilatation of less than 2 cm in 4 hours or a slowing in the

progress of labour for second or subsequent labours
• descent and rotation of the fetal head
• changes in the strength, duration and frequency of uterine

contractions (recommendation 1.6.5).
Perceived delay in the established first stage

1.13.1 Where delay in the established first stage is suspected the
following should be considered:
• parity
• cervical dilatation and rate of change
• uterine contractions
• station and position of presenting part
• the woman’s emotional state
• referral to the appropriate healthcare professional.
Women should be offered support, hydration, and appropriate and

effective pain relief.
1.13.2 If delay in the established first stage of labour is suspected,

amniotomy should be considered for all women with intact
membranes, following explanation of the procedure and advice that

it will shorten her labour by about an hour and may increase the
strength and pain of her contractions.
1.13.3 Whether or not a woman has agreed to an amniotomy, all women

with suspected delay in the established first stage of labour should
be advised to have a vaginal examination 2 hours later, and if
progress is less than 1 cm a diagnosis of delay is made.
1.13.4 In women with intact membranes in whom delay in the established

first stage of labour is confirmed, amniotomy should be advised to
the woman, and she should be advised to have a repeat vaginal
examination 2 hours later whether her membranes are ruptured or
intact.
1.13.5 When delay in the established first stage of labour is confirmed in

nulliparous women, advice should be sought from an obstetrician
and the use of oxytocin should be considered. The woman should
be informed that the use of oxytocin following spontaneous or
artificial rupture of the membranes will bring forward her time of
birth but will not influence the mode of birth or other outcomes.
1.13.6 Multiparous women with confirmed delay in the first stage should
be seen by an obstetrician who should make a full assessment,
including an abdominal palpation and vaginal examination, before
making a decision about the use of oxytocin.
1.13.7 All women with delay in the established first stage of labour should
be offered support and effective pain relief.
1.13.8 Women should be informed that oxytocin will increase the

frequency and strength of their contractions and that its use will
mean their baby should be monitored continuously. Women should
be offered an epidural before oxytocin is started.
1.13.9 Where oxytocin is used, the time between increments of the dose
should be no more frequent than every 30 minutes. Oxytocin

should be increased until there are 4–5 contractions in 10 minutes.
(See also section 1.12 on monitoring babies in labour.)
1.13.10 The woman should be advised to have a vaginal examination

4 hours after commencing oxytocin in established labour. If there is
less than 2 cm progress after 4 hours of oxytocin, further obstetric
review is required to consider caesarean section. If there is 2 cm or
more progress, vaginal examinations should be advised 4-hourly.
1.13.11 Amniotomy alone for suspected delay in the established first stage
of labour is not an indication to commence continuous EFM.
1.13.12 Where a diagnosis of delay in the established first stage of labour is

made, continuous EFM should be offered.
1.13.13 Continuous EFM should be used when oxytocin is administered for

augmentation.
1.14 Complicated labour: second stage

Duration and definition of delay in the second stage
Nulliparous women:
• Birth would be expected to take place within 3 hours of the start of

the active second stage in most women.

when it has lasted 2 hours and women should be referred to a
healthcare professional trained to undertake an operative vaginal
birth if birth is not imminent (recommendation 1.7.2).
Parous women:
• Birth would be expected to take place within 2 hours of the start of

the active second stage in most women.

when it has lasted 1 hour and women should be referred to a

healthcare professional trained to undertake an operative vaginal
birth if birth is not imminent (recommendation 1.7.3).
1.14.1 Where there is delay in the second stage of labour, or if the woman
is excessively distressed, support and sensitive encouragement
and the woman’s need for analgesia/anaesthesia are particularly
important.
1.14.2 In nulliparous women, if after 1 hour of active second stage

progress is inadequate, delay is suspected. Following vaginal
examination, amniotomy should be offered if the membranes are
intact.
1.14.3 Women with confirmed delay in the second stage should be

assessed by an obstetrician but oxytocin should not be started.
1.14.4 Following initial obstetric assessment for women with delay in the
second stage of labour, ongoing obstetric review should be
maintained every 15–30 minutes.
Instrumental birth and delayed second stage

1.14.5 Instrumental birth should be considered if there is concern about
fetal wellbeing, or for prolonged second stage.
1.14.6 On rare occasions, the woman’s need for help in the second stage
may be an indication to assist by offering instrumental birth when
supportive care has not helped.
1.14.7 The choice of instrument depends on a balance of clinical

circumstance and practitioner experience.
1.14.8 Instrumental birth is an operative procedure that should be

undertaken with tested effective anaesthesia.
1.14.9 If a woman declines anaesthesia, a pudendal block combined with

local anaesthetic to the perineum can be used during instrumental
birth.

1.14.10 Where there is concern about fetal compromise, either tested
effective anaesthesia or, if time does not allow this, a pudendal
block combined with local anaesthetic to the perineum can be used
during instrumental birth.
1.14.11 Caesarean section should be advised if vaginal birth is not

possible 8 .
1.15 Complicated labour: immediate care of newborn

Basic neonatal resuscitation
1.15.1 All relevant healthcare professionals caring for women during birth
should attend a course in neonatal resuscitation at least annually,
which is consistent with the algorithm adopted in the ‘Newborn life
support course’ developed by the Resuscitation Council (UK) 9 .
1.15.2 Basic resuscitation of newborn babies should be initiated with air.
1.15.3 Oxygen should be available for babies who do not respond once
adequate ventilation has been established.
1.15.4 Emergency referral pathways for both the woman and the baby
should be developed and implemented for all birth settings.
1.16 Complicated labour: third stage

Prolonged third stage
The third stage of labour is diagnosed as prolonged if not completed within

30 minutes of the birth of the baby with active management and 60 minutes
with physiological management (recommendation 1.8.2).
Treatment of women with a retained placenta

1.16.1 Intravenous access should always be secured in women with a
retained placenta.
8
See ‘Caesarean section’ (NICE clinical guideline 13).
9
Available from www.resus.org.uk/siteindx.htm

1.16.2 Intravenous infusion of oxytocin should not be used to assist the
delivery of the placenta.
1.16.3 For women with a retained placenta oxytocin injection into the
umbilical vein with 20 IU of oxytocin in 20 ml of saline is
recommended, followed by proximal clamping of the cord.
1.16.4 If the placenta is still retained 30 minutes after oxytocin injection, or

sooner if there is concern about the woman’s condition, women
should be offered an assessment of the need to remove the
placenta. Women should be informed that this assessment can be
painful and they should be advised to have analgesia or even
anaesthesia for this assessment.
1.16.5 If a woman reports inadequate pain relief during the assessment,

the healthcare professional must immediately stop the examination
and address this need.
1.16.6 If manual removal of the placenta is required, this must be carried

out under effective regional anaesthesia (or general anaesthesia
when necessary).
Risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage

1.16.7 Women with risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage should be
advised to give birth in an obstetric unit where more emergency
treatment options are available.
• Antenatal risk factors:

− previous retained placenta or postpartum haemorrhage
− maternal haemoglobin level below 8.5 g/dl at onset of labour
− body mass index greater than 35 kg/m2
− grand multiparity (parity 4 or more)
− antepartum haemorrhage
− overdistention of the uterus (for example, multiple pregnancy,
polyhydramnios or macrosomia)
− existing uterine abnormalities

− low-lying placenta
− maternal age (35 years or older).
• Risk factors in labour:

− induction
− prolonged first, second or third stage of labour
− oxytocin use
− precipitate labour
− operative birth or caesarean section.
1.16.8 If a woman has risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage, these

should be highlighted in her notes and a care plan covering the
third stage of labour should be made and discussed with the
woman.
1.16.9 The unit should have strategies in place in order to respond quickly
and appropriately should a postpartum haemorrhage occur.
Management of postpartum haemorrhage

1.16.10 Immediate treatment for postpartum haemorrhage should include:
• calling for appropriate help

• uterine massage
• intravenous fluids
• uterotonics.
1.16.11 No particular uterotonic drug can be recommended over another for

the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage.

1.16.12 Treatment combinations for postpartum haemorrhage might include
repeat bolus of oxytocin (intravenous), ergometrine (intramuscular,
or cautiously intravenously), intramuscular oxytocin with
ergometrine (Syntometrine), misoprostol 10 , oxytocin infusion
(Syntocinon) or carboprost (intramuscular).
1.16.13 Additional therapeutic options for the treatment of postpartum

haemorrhage include tranexamic acid (intravenous) and rarely, in
the presence of otherwise normal clotting factors, rFactor VIIa, after
seeking advice from a haematologist10.
1.16.14 If possible, a member of the healthcare team should be allocated to

remain with the woman and her partner during postpartum
haemorrhage to ensure communication and offer support
throughout the emergency situation.
1.16.15 No particular surgical procedure can be recommended above

another for the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage.
2 Notes on the scope of the guidance

NICE guidelines are developed in accordance with a scope that defines what
the guideline will and will not cover. The scope of this guideline is available
from www.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=243361
The guideline is intended to develop guidance for healthy women and their
babies in labour. Therefore the following were excluded from the scope:
• Women or their babies in suspected or confirmed preterm labour (before

37 weeks gestation); women with an intrauterine fetal death; women with
coexisting severe morbidities such as pre-eclampsia or diabetes; women
10
At the time of publication (September 2007), misoprostol and rFactor VIIa did not have UK
marketing authorisation for this indication. Informed consent should be obtained and
documented; however, if this is not possible, follow the Department of Health guidelines –
‘Reference guide to consent for examination or treatment’ (2001) (available from
www.dh.gov.uk). It may be appropriate to get consent in the antenatal period.

who have multiple pregnancies; women with intrauterine growth retardation
of the unborn baby.
• Women who have been covered in other guidelines, for example, women
who have their labour induced (‘Induction of labour’ [Inherited clinical
guideline D]); women who have a caesarean birth or with breech
presentation (‘Caesarean section’ [NICE clinical guideline 13]).
• Techniques for operative delivery or repair of third- or fourth-degree
perineal trauma; additional care for women with known or suspected
infectious comorbidities such as group B streptococcus, HIV or genital
herpes virus.
How this guideline was developed
NICE commissioned the National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and

Children’s Health to develop this guideline. The Centre established a
Guideline Development Group (see appendix A), which reviewed the evidence
and developed the recommendations. An independent Guideline Review
Panel oversaw the development of the guideline (see appendix B).
There is more information in the booklet: ‘The guideline development process:

an overview for stakeholders, the public and the NHS’ (second edition,
published April 2006), which is available from
www.nice.org.uk/guidelinesprocess or by telephoning 0870 1555 455 (quote
reference N1233).
3 Implementation
The Healthcare Commission assesses the performance of NHS organisations
in meeting core and developmental standards set by the Department of Health
in ‘Standards for better health’, issued in July 2004. Implementation of clinical
guidelines forms part of the developmental standard D2. Core standard C5
says that national agreed guidance should be taken into account when NHS
organisations are planning and delivering care.
NICE has developed tools to help organisations implement this guidance

(listed below). These are available on our website (www.nice.org.uk/CG055).

• Slides highlighting key messages for local discussion.
• Costing tools.
• Implementation advice on how to put the guidance into practice and
national initiatives which support this locally.
• Audit criteria to monitor local practice.
4 Research recommendations
The Guideline Development Group has made the following recommendations
for research, based on its review of evidence, to improve NICE guidance and
patient care in the future. The Guideline Development Group’s full set of
research recommendations is detailed in the full guideline (see section 5).
4.1 Planning place of birth

The best possible studies comparing different places of birth should be
undertaken in the UK. Prospective research to assess clinical outcomes,
including safety, for all places of birth should be undertaken, as well as
qualitative data collection to assess women’s experiences of birth.
Why this is important

Please refer to chapter 3 of the full guideline (see section 5).
4.2 Wellbeing of women

Studies are needed that investigate the components affecting a woman’s
satisfaction with her birth experience, including her emotional and
psychological wellbeing. A robust method of assessing a woman’s satisfaction
is also needed.

Women’s experiences of birth vary enormously and are influenced by many
factors including her expectations, her degree of preparation, the complexity
of the birth and the severity of her pain. Most studies investigated the
effectiveness of any interventions used during birth, but insufficiently reported
women’s psychological and emotional wellbeing and their birth experiences.
The findings consistently showed that measurement of these factors was not

robustly undertaken. A standardised method to measure and quantify
women’s psychological and emotional wellbeing and their birth experiences is
urgently required to support any study investigating the effectiveness of
interventions, techniques or strategies during birth.
4.3 Delay in the first stage of labour

Studies are needed that investigate the effectiveness of any strategies to
increase spontaneous vaginal birth where diagnosis is made of delay in the
first stage of labour.

Delay in the first stage of labour has been defined in a number of ways and no
universal consensus has been achieved. Traditionally delay has been defined
largely by the rate of cervical progress without taking into account either the
woman’s uterine activity and descent/rotation of the baby’s head during birth.
Although it is acknowledged that the duration of labour is dependent on parity,
clinical practice and local labour guidelines rarely make that distinction.
Studies included in the guideline attempted to assess labour augmentation by
amniotomy and/or oxytocin for delayed first stage of labour, although the
combination, timing and dose of these interventions are scarcely investigated.
Few good quality studies have investigated the effectiveness of non-invasive
techniques such as breathing and relaxation, massage, complementary
therapies or immersion in water. Strategies to identify the best combination of
regimens to prevent delay or appropriately expedite the first stage of labour
when necessary to improve the wellbeing of women and their babies should
be investigated urgently.
5 Other versions of this guideline
5.1 Full guideline

The full guideline, ‘Intrapartum care: care of healthy women and their babies
during childbirth’, contains details of the methods and evidence used to
develop the guideline. It is published by the National Collaborating Centre for
Women’s and Children’s Health, and is available from www.ncc-wch.org.uk,

our website (www.nice.org.uk/CG055fullguideline) and the National Library for
Health (www.nlh.nhs.uk).
5.2 Quick reference guide

A quick reference guide for healthcare professionals is also available from
www.nice.org/CG055quickrefguide
For printed copies, phone the NHS Response Line on 0870 1555 455 (quote
reference number N1326).
5.3 ‘Understanding NICE guidance’

A version of this guideline for healthy women during childbirth and their carers
(‘Understanding NICE guidance’) is available from
www.nice.org.uk/CG055publicinfo
For printed copies, phone the NHS Response Line on 0870 1555 455 (quote
reference number N1327).
6 Related NICE guidance

Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service
guidance. NICE clinical guideline 45 (2007). Available from
www.nice.org.uk/CG045
Postnatal care: routine postnatal care of women and their babies. NICE
clinical guideline 37 (2006). Available from www.nice.org.uk/CG037
Caesarean section. NICE clinical guideline 13 (2004). Available from

Antenatal care: routine care for the healthy pregnant woman. NICE clinical
guideline 6 (2003). Available from www.nice.org.uk/CG006
Infection control: prevention of healthcare-associated infection in primary and

community care. NICE clinical guideline 2 (2003). Available from

Induction of labour. Inherited clinical guideline D (2001). Available from
www.nice.org.uk/guidelineD
NICE is developing the following guidance (details available from

www.nice.org.uk):
Diabetes in pregnancy: management of diabetes and its complications from

pre-conception to the postnatal period. NICE clinical guideline (publication
expected March 2008)
Maternal and child nutrition: guidance for midwives, health visitors,

pharmacists and other primary care services to improve the nutrition of
pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and children in low income households.
NICE public health programme (publication expected March 2008)
7 Updating the guideline

NICE clinical guidelines are updated as needed so that recommendations
take into account important new information. We check for new evidence 2
and 4 years after publication, to decide whether all or part of the guideline
should be updated. If important new evidence is published at other times, we
may decide to do a more rapid update of some recommendations.

Appendix A: The Guideline Development Group
Ms Sara Kenyon
Senior Research Fellow/Guideline Development Group Leader, University of
Leicester
Dr D Tony Ducker
Consultant Neonatologist, Medway Hospital
Mr Simon Grant
Consultant in Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Southmead Hospital
Mrs Gill Gyte (resigned June 2007)

Women’s Representative
Ms Jayne Jempson
Labour Ward Matron, Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust
Ms Carolyn Markham
Dr Geraldine O’Sullivan
Obstetric Anaesthetist, St Thomas Hospital
Dr Julia Sanders
Consultant Midwife, Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust
Ms Maureen Treadwell
Professor Derek Tuffnell

Consultant in Obstetrics, Bradford Royal Infirmary
Mr Steve Walkinshaw
Consultant in Obstetrics, Liverpool Women’s Hospital

Mrs Marina Wells
Recruitment and Retention Midwife, Barnet and Chase Farm NHS Trust
Professor Martin Whittle

Clinical Co-Director for Women’s Health, National Collaborating Centre for
Women’s and Children’s Health
Dr Martin Dougherty
Executive Director, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s
Health
Dr Rintaro Mori
Research Fellow, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s
Health
Dr Roz Ullman
Senior Research Fellow, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and
Children’s Health
Mr Paul Jacklin
Senior Health Economist, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and
Children’s Health
Miss Peny Retsa

Health Economist, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s
Health
Mrs Debbie Pledge

Senior Information Specialist, National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and
Children’s Health
Mrs Samantha Vahidi

Senior Work Programme Coordinator, National Collaborating Centre for
Women’s and Children’s Health

Appendix B: The Guideline Review Panel
The Guideline Review Panel is an independent panel that oversees the
development of the guideline and takes responsibility for monitoring
adherence to NICE guideline development processes. In particular, the panel
ensures that stakeholder comments have been adequately considered and
responded to. The panel includes members from the following perspectives:
primary care, secondary care, lay, public health and industry.
Dr John Hyslop (Chair)

Consultant Radiologist, Royal Cornwall NHS Trust
Dr Ash Paul (from Feb 2007)

Deputy Medical Director, Health Commission Wales (Specialist Services)
Mr John Seddon (from June 2007)

Chair, V.O.I.C.E.S.
Miss Amanda Wilde (until March 2007)

Industry Representative

Appendix C: The algorithms
A care pathway can be found in the quick reference guide, available from
www.nice.org.uk/CG055quickrefguide

RCOG - Parto Normal

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

RCOG - Parto Normal

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

RCOG - Parto Normal

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Issue date: September 2007

NICE clinical guideline 55

For printed copies of the quick reference guide or ‘Understanding NICE

National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

This guideline covers the care of healthy women in labour at term

This guideline provides an update of ‘The use of electronic fetal monitoring:

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 5

Good communication between healthcare professionals and the woman and

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 6

Planning place of birth

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 7

Coping with pain

Delay in the first stage

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 8

1.1 Planning place of birth

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 9

Box 1 Clinical governance in all settings

Multidisciplinary clinical governance structures, of which the Labour Ward

Rotating staff between obstetric and midwife-led units should be encouraged

Clear referral pathways should be in place to enable midwives to inform or

If an obstetric opinion is sought by either the midwife or the woman on the

All healthcare professionals should document discussions with the woman

The clinical governance group should be responsible for detailed root-cause

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 10

Data must be submitted to the national registries for either intrapartum-related

Box 2 Clinical governance for settings other than an obstetric unit

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 11

1.1.4 National registries of the root-cause analysis findings relating to all

1.1.5 A definition of neonatal encephalopathy should be agreed and a

1.1.6 Tables 1, 2, 3 and 4 should be used as part of an assessment for

Tables 1 and 2 show medical conditions or situations in which there

The factors listed in tables 3 and 4 are not reasons in themselves

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 12

Respiratory Asthma requiring an increase in treatment or hospital treatment

Haematological Haemoglobinopathies – sickle-cell disease, beta-thalassaemia major

Infective Risk factors associated with group B streptococcus whereby antibiotics in

Immune Systemic lupus erythematosus

Renal Abnormal renal function

Psychiatric Psychiatric disorder requiring current inpatient care

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 13

Current pregnancy Multiple birth

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 14

Infective Hepatitis B/C with normal liver function tests

Immune Non-specific connective tissue disorders

Endocrine Unstable hypothyroidism such that a change in treatment is required

Skeletal/neurological Spinal abnormalities

Gastrointestinal Liver disease without current abnormal liver function

Table 4 Other factors indicating individual assessment when planning

Fetal indications Fetal abnormality

Previous Major gynaecological surgery

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 15

• indications for electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) including

1.3 Care throughout labour

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 16

1.3.2 To establish communication with the labouring woman, healthcare

• Greet the woman with a smile and a personal welcome,

NICE clinical guideline 55 – intrapartum care 17

1.3.5 A woman in established labour should not be left on her own

1.3.6 Women should be encouraged to have support by birth partner(s)

1.3.7 Team midwifery (defined as a group of midwives providing care