Influence of the active second stage of labor in nulliparous women on umbilical cord blood pH and neonatal outcomes: a population-based, cohort study

Using a large, population-based cohort, we found that prolonged active second stage of labor was associated with an increased odds for cord blood acidosis at birth, low Apgar score at 5 min, and suspected CNS-disease in neonates. Efficient and evidence-based time management during the active second stage of labor is therefore crucial for reducing the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes.