Halifax hospital aims to prevent unplanned C-sections through ’empowering’ technique
The IWK Health Centre in Halifax has introduced a new strategy known as the full moon circuit to reduce the number of unplanned caesarean sections during childbirth. This technique involves a series of laboring positions that aim to shorten labor, reduce pain, decrease fetal distress, and promote more spontaneous vaginal births.
Jennifer Jollymore, a clinical nurse specialist at the IWK, along with a charge nurse, initiated the use of the full moon circuit in 2023. After three months of implementing this approach, the rate of unplanned C-sections at the hospital decreased from 24% to 16%. While the correlation between the full moon circuit and the reduction in C-sections cannot be definitively proven, Jollymore remains optimistic about the positive impact of this technique.
The full moon circuit involves a sequence of position changes, including lying on the left side, transitioning to an upright position, lying on the right side, and ending in a forward-leaning position. These movements help progress labor by positioning the baby in the pelvis, utilizing the force of gravity to aid in the birthing process.
Despite the name, the full moon circuit has nothing to do with lunar phases. Instead, it is based on the concept of applying pressure evenly around the cervix to facilitate dilation. Jollymore explained that the circular nature of the full moon symbolizes the cervix, making the name fitting and a bit playful.
Patients who have received epidurals, which can diminish the sensation of labor pains, benefit greatly from the full moon technique. Jollymore emphasized the importance of adapting to the challenges posed by epidurals and working collaboratively with patients to enhance their birthing experience.
In addition to its success at the IWK Health Centre, the hospital plans to create a “full moon challenge toolkit” for other Canadian healthcare facilities to help reduce the incidence of unplanned C-sections nationwide. This initiative aims to alleviate stress on patients and healthcare providers, as well as optimize staffing levels in maternity units.
Overall, the full moon circuit has received a positive response from patients, empowering them to actively participate in their labor and take control of their birthing process. With approximately 4,500 births occurring annually at the IWK Health Centre, this innovative approach holds promise for improving childbirth outcomes and enhancing the overall maternity care experience.
