Effect of Birth Ball Exercise on Labor Progress During the Active Phase of Labor Assessed by Intrapartum Ultrasound

The active phase of labor is a critical period for the progress of labor and maternal comfort. Non-pharmacological interventions such as birth ball exercises are frequently used to support labor progress and maternal mobility. Birth ball exercises may facilitate fetal descent, improve maternal pelvic mobility, and potentially shorten labor duration. Intrapartum ultrasound has recently emerged as an objective method for assessing labor progress and fetal head position. Compared with digital vaginal examination, intrapartum ultrasound provides more reliable and reproducible measurements. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of birth ball exercises performed during the active phase of labor on labor progress using intrapartum ultrasound. The findings of this study may contribute to understanding the potential benefits of birth ball exercises in supporting physiological labor.

Inclusion Criteria: * Pregnant women aged 18-35 years * Nulliparous women * Singleton pregnancy * Cephalic presentation * Gestational age between 38 and 40 weeks * Expected vaginal delivery * Cervical dilation ≥6 cm (active phase of labor) * Ability to perform birth ball exercises * Ability to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Multiple pregnancy * Non-cephalic presentation * Previous uterine surgery * Obstetric risk factors * Obstetric complications during labor (e.g., vaginal bleeding, fetal distress) * Gestational age \