Greaker

Researchers are investigating the effect of the Labour Care Guide (LCG), a new tool recommended by the World Health Organization to monitor birth and assess labor progression. This study focuses on women experiencing active labor in Norway and aims to compare the LCG with the previous WHO partograph. The goal is to understand how the LCG impacts labor interventions, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and the overall childbirth experience, particularly focusing on intrapartum cesarean section rates. The trial is a nationwide stepped wedge randomized controlled study conducted at ten hospitals across Norway. During the trial, all participating hospitals will use both the WHO partograph and the LCG to monitor labor for women planning vaginal delivery. The study consists of three parts: developing and testing an electronic version of the LCG, assessing its clinical effects through the randomized trial, and surveying women about their childbirth experiences using a questionnaire. Women in active labor at the study hospitals who plan vaginal delivery will be included unless they choose to opt out. Local research teams at each hospital will oversee trial implementation and data collection. Researchers will evaluate labor interventions, health outcomes for mothers and babies, and patient-reported experiences during childbirth. The study results will inform possible national adoption of the LCG in Norway, with participation lasting through labor and delivery and follow-up at 18 months for cesarean section outcomes.