Long-term outcomes
One trial investigated the long-term outcomes of support by a specially trained nurse for women
in labour. There were no significant differences between the trial groups for poor relationship with
partner postpartum (RR 1.00 [95% CI 0.80 to 1.23]), postpartum urinary incontinence (RR 0.93
[95% CI 0.81 to 1.06]) or postpartum faecal incontinence (RR 0.89 [95% CI 0.64 to 1.24]).
Evidence statement
In general, the included studies were of good quality. A range of professionals prividing oneto-
one care, including obstetric nurses, was identified within the studies. There is evidence to
suggest that women with one-to-one care throughout their labour are significantly less likely to
have caesarean section or instrumental vaginal birth, will be more satisfied and will have a positive
experience of childbirth. This impact becomes more apparent when non-professional staff
members, rather than professional staff members, care for them. The non-professional person