Edinburgh Napier University

  The aim of this article is to relate basic findings from research papers to identify the effects that valsalva manoeuvre (‘purple pushing’) has upon maternal and fetal wellbeing. Analysis of 16 papers revealed four main consequences from purple pushing. These include: an increase in fetal distress; maternal distress; and perineal trauma, when compared with spontaneous pushing. Valsalva manoeuvre also makes little difference to length of second stage. Key conclusions from this literature review are that women should be encouraged to push instinctively, which often embraces natural vocalization. Restrictions of time should not be imposed when mother and fetus are well. Awaiting instinctive behaviour reduces the incidence of urinary system, pelvic floor and perineal trauma. These findings should facilitate midwives to critically understand research that underpins the Royal College of Midwives (2007) second stage of labour guidelines.