Effectiveness of a Positioning Program Involving Pelvic Biomechanics Using a Peanut Ball During Labor on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial [ID 1394]

INTRODUCTION: The peanut ball is an intervention that can aid in the progression of vaginal labor. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using the peanut ball on maternal and neonatal outcomes during labor. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial with randomized allocation concealment and intention-to-treat analysis was conducted with 126 parturients recruited between October 2019 and December 2022. The experimental group was offered five different positions using the peanut ball and utilized at least three positions. Participants were encouraged to remain in each position for 30 minutes, totaling 90 minutes of peanut ball use. The control group received usual care. RESULTS: The total duration of labor was 310 minutes (SD 300) in the experimental group and 480 minutes (SD 371) in the control group. The experimental intervention reduced labor duration by 188.2 minutes (95% CI -208.8 to -95.6). The intervention increased the probability of vaginal delivery by 73% (RR 1.73, 95% CI, 1.09 to 2.28; NNT 12) and decreased the risk of cesarean delivery by 60% (RR 0.40, 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.89; NNT 12). Maternal anxiety was reduced (MD −3.56, 95% CI −5.69 to −1.43), and maternal fatigue decreased significantly (MD −4.15, 95% CI, −7.08 to −1.23). CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: The use of the peanut ball during labor reduced labor time by 188.2 minutes, increased the probability of vaginal delivery by 73%, decreased the risk of cesarean delivery by 60%, and significantly reduced maternal fatigue and anxiety.