Impact on Postpartum Anal Incontinence of an Educational Program for Delivery Room Staff on the Diagnosis and Repair of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries

What this Trial Is About

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries can cause significant short-term pain, bleeding, infection, and medium-term issues like sexual dysfunction, as well as long-term anal incontinence in up to 30-60% of cases. These injuries are often underdiagnosed or repaired incorrectly due to technical challenges and lack of awareness, which worsens patients' outcomes. This observational study aims to assess the clinical impact of an educational program for delivery room staff focused on improving the diagnosis and repair of these injuries. The study observes adult women who gave birth vaginally at Strasbourg University Hospital within a six-month window around the training of delivery room staff. Participants include those with singleton pregnancies and live births. The educational program is designed to enhance staff skills in managing obstetric anal sphincter injuries, though no specific interventions or treatments are administered to participants. Participants will be monitored for up to 18 months after delivery to assess outcomes using the St. Mark's score, which measures anal incontinence. The study involves follow-up evaluations to understand the long-term effects of improved staff training on postpartum anal incontinence. The total participation duration varies depending on the time since delivery and follow-up assessments.

Impact on Postpartum Anal Incontinence of an Educational Program for Delivery Room Staff