National Autonomous University of Honduras

This experimental study aims to evaluate whether the application of obstetric lubricant gel during vaginal delivery can significantly reduce the duration of the second stage of labor, preserve perineal integrity, and decrease the need for episiotomies. The study hypothesis is that lubricant gel facilitates fetal passage through the birth canal by reducing friction, shortening the expulsion phase and reducing maternal-neonatal complications. Two groups will be included: with and without gel application. Follow-up will span from admission of the pregnant woman until immediate postpartum discharge.

This is a single-blind, randomized, parallel-group, superiority clinical trial. The study aims to determine whether a single intake of 30g of dark chocolate (≥80% cocoa) by pregnant women with a non-reactive fetal non-stress test (NST) increases the conversion rate to a reactive NST within 20 minutes, compared to observation with a sugar-free white chocolate placebo. A total of 190 singleton pregnant women at 36-41 weeks gestation with a non-reactive NST will be recruited at the Hospital General San Felipe, Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group (dark chocolate) or the control group (placebo). The primary outcome is the proportion of NSTs that become reactive. Secondary outcomes include changes in specific cardiotocographic parameters, total monitoring time, need for additional tests, and maternal satisfaction.

This study aims to analyze whether there is a significant difference in the occurrence of postpartum hemorrhage between women who underwent umbilical cord drainage and those who did not. Variables such as estimated blood loss volume, drop in hemoglobin levels, and the need for additional maneuvers or treatments to control hemorrhage will be examined. The research will be conducted under a parallel-group clinical trial design at the Hospital Escuela Universitario. Post-birth umbilical cord drainage may contribute to a lower frequency of postpartum hemorrhage compared to not performing it.