Sammanfattning
Background. The use of support techniques to protect the perineum in the final phase of delivery is controversial. The objective of this survey was to learn more about the use of manual techniques for providing perineal support in Norwegian maternity departments.
Material and method. We have conducted a questionnaire survey addressed to the heads of all maternity departments in Norway.
Results. We received answers from 39 of 47 maternity departments (83?%). 34 of the departments responded that most midwives use manual techniques. 27 departments reported that there had been a change in practice, and nearly all of them thought the changes had taken place during the last five years. 17 departments had written guidelines on the use of manual techniques. The use of support techniques was recommended without exception. Almost half of the departments recommended the modified Ritgen’s manoeuvre («the Finnish manoeuvre»). In many departments, the choice of support technique was left up to the individual midwife or obstetrician.
Interpretation. Support techniques now appear to have become standard procedure in the great majority of Norwegian maternity departments. It is therefore difficult to carry out a comparative study of the use of manual techniques versus a passive approach. Further investigation should be carried out of whether the introduction of perineal support has had the desired effect.