Vaginal examination

• RCM Suggest that VE's should be


  • Carried out by same midwife
  • Close throughout labour to reduce interobserver variability and inaccuracy
• VE's


  • Taking care
  • Consent
  • Sensitivity
  • Chaperone-timing
  • Empty bladder
  • Talking to woman
  • Abdominal examination
  • Auscultation
  • Privacy and dignity
  • Equipment-gloves
• VE's are only one part of assessment of progress in labour, and may not be necessary
• Consent must be informed
• Indications for VE


  • To diagnose labour
  • Prior to give analgesia
  • To assess progress in labour
  • To exclude cord prolapse
  • To confirm presentation and position
  • To perform ARM
• Findings from VE


  • Moulding
  • Position
  • Vulval vagina
  • Perineum position, effacement, consistency
  • Dilation
  • Membranes
  • Presenting part
• Consent must be obtained
• Privacy and dignity must be maintained