Cowansville

This research aims to find out if applying compresses soaked in 25% magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) can reduce perineal pain in women after giving birth vaginally. The study focuses on women who experience perineal or vulvar pain rated 3 out of 10 or higher following delivery. It is a phase 2, multi-center, double-blinded randomized clinical trial conducted in four hospitals in Quebec, Canada, involving 104 participants. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will receive compresses soaked in 25% magnesium sulfate solution, and the other will receive placebo compresses soaked in water. They will apply these compresses to the vulva and perineum for 15 minutes, up to four times a day, as needed during their hospital stay, which usually lasts between 24 and 48 hours. The study will compare the effects of the two treatments on pain relief and will monitor for any adverse effects. During their hospital stay, participants will rate their pain using visual and numerical pain scales before and after each compress application. They will also keep a diary to record compress use and pain levels. Researchers will assess pain reduction, analgesic use, any complications, participant satisfaction, and feasibility of this treatment method. Safety and effectiveness data will be gathered throughout the study period to help inform future postpartum care practices.