DEMEM trial

Title: Dataset: Impact of Membrane Sweeping on Labour Onset in Nulliparous Women - A Single-Blind RCT

Description:

This dataset contains the results of a single-blind, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigating the efficacy of membrane sweeping (the Hamilton manoeuvre) for promoting the spontaneous onset of the active phase of labour in nulliparous women with a favourable cervix at term (≥37 weeks).

Research Hypothesis: The primary hypothesis was that a single membrane sweep during a digital examination would reduce the time from intervention to the onset of active labour (cervical dilation ≥6 cm) compared to expectant management (no intervention). A secondary hypothesis was that it would reduce the rate of subsequent oxytocin augmentation.

Data Collection: Data was gathered from 71 participants recruited in a hospital emergency setting. Following informed consent, participants were randomised to an Intervention group (n=38) receiving membrane sweeping or a Control group (n=33). Data includes baseline sociodemographic/obstetric characteristics, process outcomes (time to active labour, time to delivery), and clinical outcomes (need for oxytocin augmentation, mode of delivery, maternal/neonatal complications, and maternal satisfaction measured via the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale).

Notable Findings: The analysis supports the primary hypothesis. The membrane sweeping group experienced a statistically significant reduction in the mean time to active labour (8.3 ± 3.4 hours vs. 10.6 ± 4.7 hours in controls; p=0.03). Crucially, the intervention was associated with a 64% reduced likelihood of requiring oxytocin augmentation (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13–0.95; p=0.038). No significant difference was found in caesarean section rates or adverse events.

Interpretation & Usage: This dataset provides evidence that membrane sweeping is an effective, low-risk intervention to accelerate the onset of active labour and significantly reduce the need for pharmacological augmentation in nulliparous women. Researchers can use this data for secondary analysis, validation, or meta-analysis. The variables are labelled and can be analysed using statistical software like SPSS or R to replicate the primary findings or explore other correlations.