From the Research
Repeated vaginal examinations during labor do not significantly increase the risk of infection when proper hygiene measures are used, as evidenced by a recent study showing no significant difference in infection rates between sterile and clean glove use 1. The risk of infection with repeated vaginal examinations during labor is a concern, but the evidence suggests that the type of glove used (sterile vs clean) does not significantly impact the rates of intrapartum and postpartum infection 1. However, other factors such as duration of labor, rupture of membranes, and multiple examinations by different providers may increase the risk of infection 2, 3. To minimize this risk, healthcare providers should limit vaginal examinations to clinically necessary situations, use proper hand hygiene, and antiseptic techniques. The use of clean gloves for cervical examinations during labor is unlikely to increase the risk of infection and could reduce costs 1. Women with Group B Streptococcus colonization, prolonged labor, or multiple examinations by different providers may face elevated infection risks, and prophylactic antibiotics may be recommended in certain situations 2, 3. Overall, the risk of infection from repeated vaginal examinations during labor can be minimized with proper hygiene measures and careful consideration of the need for each examination. Key factors to consider include:
- Limiting vaginal examinations to clinically necessary situations
- Using proper hand hygiene and antiseptic techniques
- Considering the use of clean gloves for cervical examinations
- Being aware of the potential risks associated with prolonged labor, rupture of membranes, and multiple examinations by different providers.