Delivery assist device

Abstract

A delivery assist device (20) for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, for use with a uterine contraction monitor (22). The delivery assist device (20) includes a handle (30), including a body (32) and a hand grip (34); a vibrator (36), configured to vibrate the handle (30); a force sensor (38), configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of the hand grip (34); and control circuitry (40). The control circuity (40) is configured to receive, from the uterine contraction monitor (22), a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient. In response to the level of the uterine contraction, the control circuitry (40) drives the vibrator (36) to vibrate the handle (30) and transmits a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip (34). Other embodiments are also described.

Description

[0001] DELIVERY ASSIST DEVICE

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] The present application claims priority from US Provisional Application 63 / 658,212, filed June 10, 2024, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] FIELD OF THE APPLICATION

[0005] The present invention relates generally to techniques for assisting a parturient and physician or midwife during childbirth.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION

[0007] Each year in the US, around 2.5 million vaginal births occur, with approximately 60% involving the use of epidural anesthesia. Epidural anesthesia is a common regional anesthesia used during childbirth and surgeries. It involves injecting anesthetic medication into the epidural space to numb the lower body while maintaining the person's alertness.

[0008] During the second stage of labor, the uterus contracts every 3-5 minutes, with each contraction lasting 45-90 seconds. As the cervix reaches full dilation, the parturient naturally feels the urge to push, which coincides with the peak of contractions, providing an optimal and synchronized effort to assist the baby's descent through the birth canal.

[0009] Pushing during labor, also known as the second stage of labor, is a phase when the parturient actively engages in the birthing process by using her abdominal and uterine muscles to push the baby through the birth canal. The effectiveness of pushing is heightened when the parturient feels the natural urge to push. However, parturients who receive epidural anesthesia may have this sensation masked, causing them to feel less connected to their bodies and the birthing experience. The duration of the pushing phase varies based on several factors, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

[0010] Desynchronization between contractions and pushing during labor occurs when the urge to push does not align with the contractions. In some cases, contractions may happen without a corresponding urge to push. This desynchronization can pose challenges during the pushing stage of labor. Factors contributing to this include epidural anesthesia, maternal exhaustion, fetal position, and nerve blockages. Furthermore, desynchronization can lead to various complications for both the parturient and the baby. These may include prolonged labor, inefficient progress, maternal exhaustion, fetal distress, an increased risk of instrumental delivery, perineal tears, and postpartum hemorrhage.

[0011] Currently, the common solution is that the physician or midwife monitors the contractions through the fetal monitor and verbally communicates the information to the parturient. The physician or midwife guides the parturient to push at the appropriate times to facilitate efficient progress during the second stage of labor. However, this stage can vary in duration, lasting from a few minutes to several hours, and a physician or midwife may not be present in the delivery room for the entire duration of the second stage of labor.

[0012] The lack of medical devices or methods to alleviate this problem places a significant burden on physicians or midwives. Due to the shortage of personnel, physicians or midwives may find themselves attending to two parturients in the second stage of labor simultaneously. However, physicians and / or midwives perform a range of essential roles during labor beyond guidance in pushing and monitoring progress. These key roles include providing emotional support, managing pain, advocating for the parturient's preferences and choices, offering crucial information about labor progress and potential interventions, assisting with delivery, and providing immediate postpartum care. A recent study has highlighted that having two midwives present during the active second stage can reduce severe perineal trauma in first-time birthing women (Edqvist M et al., "The effect of two midwives during the second stage of labour to reduce severe perineal trauma (Oneplus): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial in Sweden," Lancet. 2022 Mar 26;399(10331): 1242-1253).

[0013] US Patent Application Publication 2011 / 0144458 to Gauta describes an apparatus for providing a visual image timed to coincide with uterine contractions to assist an expectant mother during childbirth labor. The apparatus is particularly useful directed to help those expectant mothers using a regional anesthesia, such as an epidural anesthesia, in the second stage of labor to push effectively. The apparatus consists of a computer system that converts signals obtained from strategically positioned sensors such as a tocodynamometer or intrauterine pressure catheter into biofeedback visual vignettes that are understandable to the expectant mother. The signals are processed into the visual vignettes or a similar pictorial image based upon the pressure of the uterine contractions so that the expectant mother may understand her contraction pattern. This in turn will allow the expectant mother to visually understand when to start and stop pushing during the second stage of labor. US Patent Application Publication 2020 / 0196958 to Penders et al. describes a method for uterine activity monitoring that may include: acquiring a plurality of signals from a plurality of sensors during uterine activity; processing the plurality of signals to extract a plurality of uterine electrical activity characteristics; analyzing the plurality of uterine electrical activity characteristics; and classifying the uterine activity as one of: a preterm labor contraction, a labor contraction, a Braxton-Hicks contraction, and a state of no contraction. A method of assessing over time a pre-term birth risk of a pregnant female may include: calculating a baseline pre-term birth risk score based on a user input; acquiring, over time, a signal from a sensor; analyzing the signal to extract a parameter of interest, such that the parameter of interest comprises a physiological parameter; and calculating an instant pre-term birth risk score based, at least in part, on the parameter of interest and the user input.

[0014] US Patent Application Publication 2022 / 0265203 to Sasson describes methods and systems implementing a graphical user interface for making childbirth more comfortable and / or effective during labor are disclosed. In some embodiments, the systems and methods are configured to receive uterine pressure strength data and use an algorithm to implement a graphical user interface displaying the current uterine pressure, a patient-defined threshold, and / or a color panel indicating a comfort or contraction zone. In some embodiments, the graphical user interface displays, based on the zone, Montevideo units, a timer, and an estimated time until the end of the current zone in seconds. In some embodiments, the systems and methods calculate when minimal and low changes are being made to the uterine pressure, informing the graphical user interface to output information corresponding to the users' needs and / or wants. In some embodiments, chimes can be activated on a graphical user interface, indicating a transition from a comfort zone to a contraction zone.

[0015] SUMMARY OF THE APPLICATION

[0016] In embodiments of the present invention, of a delivery assist device is provided for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery under epidural anesthesia.

[0017] The delivery assist device comprises a handle comprising with a vibrating body, optionally positioned on the parturient’s bed handles where she puts her hands. The device connects (e.g., wirelessly) to a conventional contraction monitor, receiving real-time information about the parturient’s contractions. When a contraction occurs, the handle vibrates, providing sensory feedback to the pregnant parturient under epidural anesthesia. This prompts her to firmly squeeze the handles, and initiates the process of labor pushing, as she engages her abdominal and uterine muscles to facilitate the progression of the birthing process.

[0018] Recent studies have revealed a correlation between handgrip strength and the strength of global and pelvic floor muscles (see, for example, Bag Soytas R et al., "Relationship between the types of urinary incontinence, handgrip strength, and pelvic floor muscle strength in adult women," Neurourol Urodyn. 2021 Aug;40(6): 1532-1538, and Porto JM et al., "Relationship between grip strength and global muscle strength in community-dwelling older people," Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2019 May-Jun;82:273-278). Based on these findings, the inventors hypothesize that the strength and duration of the parturient's handle squeezes correspond to the labor pushing (by abdominal and uterine muscles) strength and duration.

[0019] For some applications, the handle squeezing data is transmitted to a computerized console of a delivery assist system also comprising the delivery assist device. The console assesses the effectiveness of the labor pushing, providing an indication (e.g., visual and / or audio) to the parturient and / or physician or midwife, and informing them about the effectiveness of the labor pushing. This feedback enhances the birthing experience, assisting the pregnant parturient and medical team in making informed decisions during labor.

[0020] The delivery assist system thus may provide bidirectional feedback between the parturient and the console. The parturient receives feedback regarding her physiological contractions (from the fetal monitor) and her pushing actions, including details, such as their strength, duration, and efficiency.

[0021] Squeezing the handle gauges perineal muscle length and strength, and may increase the parturient's threshold of sensory stimulation, helping the parturient focus on and improve her pushing efforts, making them more effective and less physically taxing. The feedback may also empower parturients during childbirth by offering valuable insights and promoting a more focused and controlled birthing approach.

[0022] The delivery assist system may reduce prolonged labor, inefficient progress, maternal exhaustion and stress, fetal distress, risk of instrumental delivery, perineal tears, and postpartum hemorrhage. It is suitable for all types of vaginal deliveries. There is therefore provided, in accordance with an application of the present invention, a delivery assist device for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, for use with a uterine contraction monitor, the delivery assist device including: a handle, including a body and a hand grip; a vibrator, configured to vibrate the handle; a force sensor, configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of the hand grip; and control circuitry, which is configured to: receive, from the uterine contraction monitor, a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient, in response to the level of the uterine contraction, drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle, and transmit a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0023] For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle in response to the level being a peak level of the uterine contraction.

[0024] For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0025] For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to cease vibration in response to certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip.

[0026] For some applications, for use with a labor bed having handles, the delivery assist device further including a connector, configured to couple the handle of the delivery assist device to one of the handles of the labor bed.

[0027] For some applications, the hand grip is shaped so as to define finger indentations.

[0028] For some applications, an average outer diameter of the hand grip is 2.5 - 4 cm.

[0029] For some applications, a length of the hand grip is 10 - 15 cm.

[0030] For some applications, the delivery assist system further including a console, which includes one or more computer processors, and the console is configured to: receive the squeezing signal, and based on the squeezing signal, generate an output regarding labor pushing by the parturient.

[0031] For some applications, the output generated by the console includes an effectiveness of the labor pushing.

[0032] For some applications, the delivery assist system is configured to ascertain the effectiveness of the labor pushing at least in part based on a temporal correlation between the squeezing signal and a peak level of the uterine contraction.

[0033] For some applications, the output generated by the console includes the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0034] For some applications, the output generated by the console includes a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0035] For some applications, the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

[0036] For some applications: the control circuitry of the delivery assist device is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, and the console is configured to generated the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

[0037] For some applications: the one or more computer processors are configured to ascertain a duration of the squeezing based on the squeezing signal, and the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal, and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0038] For some applications, the delivery assist system further including the uterine contraction monitor.

[0039] There is further provided, in accordance with an application of the present invention, a method for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, the method including: hand gripping, by the parturient, a hand grip of a handle of a delivery assist device, the handle further including a body, the delivery assist device further including (a) a vibrator, configured to vibrate the handle, (b) a force sensor, configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of the hand grip, and (c) control circuitry, which is configured to (i) receive, from a uterine contraction monitor, a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient, and (ii) in response to the level of the uterine contraction, drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle; and upon sensing vibration of the handle, squeezing the hand grip by the parturient, so as to cause the control circuitry to transmit a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0040] For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to cease vibration in response to certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient.

[0041] For some applications, the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle in response to the level being a peak level of the uterine contraction.

[0042] For some applications, upon the squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient, the control circuitry is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0043] For some applications, the method further includes coupling the handle of the delivery assist device to a handle of a labor bed on which the parturient is disposed.

[0044] For some applications, upon the squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient, a console, which includes one or more computer processors, receives the squeezing signal; and, based on the squeezing signal, generates an output regarding labor pushing by the parturient.

[0045] For some applications, the output generated by the console includes an effectiveness of the labor pushing.

[0046] For some applications, the delivery assist system is configured to ascertain the effectiveness of the labor pushing at least in part based on a temporal correlation between the squeezing signal and a peak level of the uterine contraction.

[0047] For some applications, the output generated by the console includes the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip. For some applications, the output generated by the console includes a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0048] For some applications, the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

[0049] For some applications: the control circuitry of the delivery assist device is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, and the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

[0050] For some applications: the one or more computer processors are configured to ascertain a duration of the squeezing based on the squeezing signal, and the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal, and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

[0051] The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figs. 1A and IB are schematic isometric and cross-sectional illustrations of a delivery assist device for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

[0054] Figs. 2A and 2B are schematic illustrations of the use of the delivery assist device of Figs. 1A and IB, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

[0055] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of two delivery assist devices of Figs. 1A and IB coupled to a labor bed, in accordance with an application of the present invention; and

[0056] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a delivery assist system comprising the delivery assist device of Figs. 1 A and IB, in accordance with an application of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF APPLICATIONS

[0057] Fig. 1A is a schematic isometric illustration, and Fig. IB is a schematic cross- sectional illustration, taken along line IB — IB of Fig. 1A, of a delivery assist device 20 for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Delivery assist device 20 is for use with a uterine contraction monitor 22 (which may optionally be a component of a conventional fetal monitor) (such as shown in Fig. 4, described hereinbelow).

[0058] Delivery assist device 20 typically comprises:

[0059] • a handle 30, comprising a body 32 and a hand grip 34;

[0060] • a vibrator 36, configured to vibrate handle 30;

[0061] • a force sensor 38 (e.g., exactly one force sensor 38 or a plurality of force sensors 38 around and / or along handle 30), configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of hand grip 34 by a hand of the parturient; and

[0062] • control circuitry 40.

[0063] Typically, vibrator 36, force sensor 38, and / or control circuitry 40 are disposed within body 32 of handle 30.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, delivery assist device 20 comprises, instead of or in addition to vibrator 36, another user output, such as an audio and / or visual output.

[0065] Hand grip 34 is shaped and sized for convenient gripping by a hand of the parturient. For example, hand grip 34 may have one or more of the following dimensions:

[0066] • an average outer diameter of at least 2.5 cm, no more than 4 cm, and / or 2.5 - 4 cm, and / or

[0067] • a length of at least 10 cm, no more than 15 cm, and / or 10 - 15 cm.

[0068] These dimensions allow the parturient to comfortably hold hand grip 34 during labor, and provide a secure and ergonomic grip.

[0069] For some applications, hand grip 34 is shaped so as to define finger indentations 42.

[0070] For example, hand grip 34 may comprise one or more of the following materials: silicone; • a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) - TPEs are flexible and durable materials often used for grips because they provide a soft, rubber-like feel. They can be molded into various shapes and are resistant to wear and tear;

[0071] • rubber - natural or synthetic rubber is a common material for hand grips due to its excellent grip, flexibility, and cushioning properties. It is also resistant to slipping and can absorb shock;

[0072] • a high-density foam - high-density foams, such as polyurethane foam, offer a soft, comfortable grip that can reduce hand fatigue;

[0073] • polychloroprene (e.g., Neoprene®) - polychloroprene is a synthetic rubber that is highly durable and resistant to oil, heat, and weathering. It provides a comfortable and firm grip;

[0074] • thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) - TPU is known for its elasticity, transparency, and resistance to oil, grease, and abrasion. It can be used to create grips that are both flexible and durable;

[0075] • a textured plastic - certain plastics, such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), can be textured to enhance grip. These materials are lightweight, durable, and can be molded into ergonomic shapes;

[0076] • cork - cork is a natural material that provides a unique combination of firmness and cushioning. It is lightweight and has excellent grip properties; and / or

[0077] • leather - leather grips offer a classic look and feel, providing a firm and comfortable grip. They are durable and can be treated to enhance their longevity and resistance to wear.

[0078] Uterine contraction monitor 22 is typically a conventional uterine contraction monitor, as known in the art and available in conventional delivery rooms in hospitals.

[0079] Control circuitry 40 is typically configured to (for each contraction during labor):

[0080] • receive (typically in real-time), from uterine contraction monitor 22, a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient,

[0081] • in response to the level of the uterine contraction, drive vibrator 36 to vibrate handle 30, and • transmit a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34 by the hand of the parturient.

[0082] Control circuitry 40 is configured to carry out its functions described herein using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Control circuitry 40 typically comprises one or more computer processors and computer memory in which programming instructions are stored. In particular, the computer memory may store computer-executable instructions that when executed by the one or more computer processors cause various functions to be performed, such as the functions described herein.

[0083] Vibration of handle 30 upon occurrence of a contraction provides sensory feedback to the parturient, who, if under epidural anesthesia, would otherwise not sense the contraction. This sensory feedback encourages the parturient to squeeze hand grip 34, which the inventors believe will result in the parturient also pushing by engaging her abdominal and uterine muscles.

[0084] For some applications, control circuitry 40 is configured to drive vibrator 36 to cease vibration:

[0085] • in response to the level of the uterine contraction falling below a pre-determined threshold, e.g., a level indicative of cessation of the contraction, or a level indicative of falling below a peak level of contraction,

[0086] • in response to a certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip 34 by the parturient, e.g., a threshold strength of squeezing, a threshold duration of squeezing, and / or a threshold parameter that combines strength and duration of squeezing, and / or

[0087] • after a certain amount of time from commencement of vibration.

[0088] For example, cessation of vibration of vibrator 36 in response to a certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip 34 by the parturient may provide the parturient with the feeling that she is extinguishing the vibration by squeezing (and correspondingly pushing in labor).

[0089] Control circuitry 40 may receive the contraction signal from uterine contraction monitor 22 either via a cable that is connected to a telemetry interface 23 of uterine contraction monitor 22, or wirelessly, either directly from uterine contraction monitor 22, or from a wireless transmitter coupled by a cable to telemetry interface 23 of uterine contraction monitor 22. For wireless configurations, control circuitry 40 comprises an antenna and appropriate antenna circuitry.

[0090] For some applications, control circuitry 40 is configured to drive vibrator 36 to vibrate handle 30 in response to the level being a peak level of the uterine contraction. For other applications, control circuitry 40 is configured to drive vibrator 36 to vibrate handle 30 in response to the level being a low, commencement level of the uterine contraction, or a pre-determined threshold level between the low, commencement level and the peak level.

[0091] For some applications, control circuitry 40 is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34 and a duration of the squeezing of hand grip 34. The inventors believe that the strength and duration of squeezing by the parturient correlate with the strength and duration of labor pushing by abdominal and uterine muscles.

[0092] For some applications, vibrator 36 comprises:

[0093] • an eccentric Rotating Mass (ERM) motors, which are commonly used in mobile phones and wearables to provide haptic feedback. An example is the 304-100 Pico VibeTM (Precision Microdrives, London, UK);

[0094] • a linear resonant actuator (LRA), which provide precise and consistent vibration feedback, and are often used in high-end devices. An example is the LRA coin vibration motor model G1040003D (Jinlong Machinery & Electronics, Guangdong, China);

[0095] • a piezoelectric actuators, which are used for their high-frequency vibration capabilities and are often found in medical devices and high-precision applications. An example is the PiezoHapt™ actuator series (TDK-Lambda UK, Ilfracombe Devon, UK); or

[0096] • a brushless DC motor (BLDC), which are used in applications requiring more robust vibration, such as in industrial or automotive settings. An example is the BLDC motor series (Nidec Copal Electronics).

[0097] For some applications, force sensor 38 comprises:

[0098] • a force sensitive resistor (FSR), which changes its resistance based on the force applied to it. An example is the FSR 400 series (Interlink Electronics); • a piezoelectric sensor, which generates an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress, making it suitable for detecting pressure or squeezing. For example, piezoelectric sensors are commercially available from TE Connectivity (Berwyn, PA, USA);

[0099] • a capacitive pressure sensor, which detects changes in capacitance caused by pressure on their surface. An example is the Bosch BMP388 pressure sensor;

[0100] • a strain gauges, which measures the deformation (strain) of an object when a force is applied. An example is the Omega Engineering SGD-7 / 350-LY41 strain gauge; or

[0101] • a load cell, which is a highly accurate sensor that measures force or weight, often used in applications requiring precise measurement of squeezing forces. An example is the Honeywell Model 31 load cell.

[0102] Reference is still made to Figs. 1A and IB, and is additionally made to Figs. 2A and 2B, which are schematic illustrations of the use of delivery assist device 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In some applications of the present invention, a method is provided for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, typically, but not necessarily, under epidural anesthesia. The method comprises:

[0103] • hand gripping, by the parturient, hand grip 34 of handle 30 of delivery assist device 20, such as shown in Fig. 2A; and

[0104] • upon sensing vibration of handle 30, such as shown in Fig. 2A, squeezing hand grip 34 by the parturient, such as shown in Fig. 2B, so as to cause control circuitry 40 to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34.

[0105] Typically, but not necessarily, two delivery assist devices 20 are used, one for each hand of the parturient.

[0106] Reference is again made to Figs. 1A and IB, and further made to Fig. 3, which is a schematic illustration of two delivery assist devices 20 coupled to a labor bed 50, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Labor bed 50 is typically not an element of the invention. Labor bed 50 has handles 52, and may be a conventional labor bed. In this application, delivery assist device 20 further comprises a connector 54 (labeled in Figs. 1A and IB), configured to couple handle 30 of delivery assist device 20 to one of handles 52 of labor bed 50.

[0107] For example, connector 54 may comprise a channel 56 defined within body 32 and a longitudinal slit 58 through hand grip 34 and body 32 to provide access to channel 56. One of handles 52 of labor bed 50 is inserted into channel 56 via slit 58. Alternatively, for example, connector 54 may comprise one or straps that are configured to couple delivery assist device 20 to one of handles 52 of labor bed 50 (configuration not shown). Additional configurations of connector 54 will be evident to the person skilled in the art who has read the present application, and are within the scope of the present invention.

[0108] Alternatively, delivery assist device 20 is coupled to another object (configuration not shown), or is held freely by the parturient, not coupled to any other objects (such as shown in Figs. 2A-B).

[0109] Reference is now made to Fig. 4, which is a schematic illustration of a delivery assist system 70, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Delivery assist system 70 comprises delivery assist device 20 (typically two delivery assist devices 20, one for each hand), described hereinabove with reference to Figs. 1A-B, and further comprises a console 72, which comprises one or more computer processors 74 and computer-readable media such as computer memory. In particular, the computer memory may store computerexecutable instructions that when executed by one or more processors cause various functions to be performed, such as the functions described hereinbelow. In this regard, embodiments of the present invention may comprise or utilize a special purpose or general- purpose computer including computer hardware. Uterine contraction monitor 22, shown in Fig. 4, may or may not be an element of delivery assist system 70. As mentioned above, uterine contraction monitor 22 may optionally be a component of a conventional fetal monitor, such as shown by way of example in Fig. 4.

[0110] Console 72 is configured to:

[0111] • receive the squeezing signal, and

[0112] • based on the squeezing signal, generate an output regarding labor pushing by the parturient. For example, the output may be visual and / or audio. Depending on how console 72 is configured and / or oriented, the output may be provided to the parturient and / or the physician or midwife.

[0113] For some applications, the output generated by console 72 includes an effectiveness of the labor pushing. For example, delivery assist system 70 (e.g., console 72 thereof) may be configured to ascertain the effectiveness of the labor pushing at least in part based on a temporal correlation between the squeezing signal and a peak level of the uterine contraction.

[0114] Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, the output generated by console 72 includes:

[0115] • the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34, and / or

[0116] • a duration of the squeezing of hand grip 34.

[0117] For some applications, console 72 is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34, as indicated in the squeezing signal. For some of these applications, control circuitry 40 of delivery assist device 20 is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34 and a duration of the squeezing of hand grip 34, and console 72 is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34 and the duration of the squeezing of hand grip 34, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

[0118] For some applications, the one or more computer processors 74 of console 72 are configured to ascertain a duration of the squeezing based on the squeezing signal, and console 72 is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of hand grip 34, as indicated in the squeezing signal, and the duration of the squeezing of hand grip 34.

[0119] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A delivery assist device for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, for use with a uterine contraction monitor, the delivery assist device comprising: a handle, comprising a body and a hand grip; a vibrator, configured to vibrate the handle; a force sensor, configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of the hand grip; and control circuitry, which is configured to: receive, from the uterine contraction monitor, a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient, in response to the level of the uterine contraction, drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle, and transmit a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

2. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle in response to the level being a peak level of the uterine contraction.

3. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

4. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to cease vibration in response to certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip.

5. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, for use with a labor bed having handles, the delivery assist device further comprising a connector, configured to couple the handle of the delivery assist device to one of the handles of the labor bed.

6. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein the hand grip is shaped so as to define finger indentations.

7. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein an average outer diameter of the hand grip is 2.5 - 4 cm.

8. The delivery assist device according to claim 1, wherein a length of the hand grip is10 - 15 cm.

9. A delivery assist system comprising the delivery assist device according to any one of claims 1-8, the delivery assist system further comprising a console, which comprises one or more computer processors, wherein the console is configured to: receive the squeezing signal, and based on the squeezing signal, generate an output regarding labor pushing by the parturient.

10. The delivery assist system according to claim 9, wherein the output generated by the console includes an effectiveness of the labor pushing.

11. The delivery assist system according to claim 10, wherein the delivery assist system is configured to ascertain the effectiveness of the labor pushing at least in part based on a temporal correlation between the squeezing signal and a peak level of the uterine contraction.

12. The delivery assist system according to claim 9, wherein the output generated by the console includes the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

13. The delivery assist system according to claim 9, wherein the output generated by the console includes a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

14. The delivery assist system according to claim 9, wherein the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

15. The delivery assist system according to claim 14, wherein the control circuitry of the delivery assist device is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, and wherein the console is configured to generated the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

16. The delivery assist system according to claim 14, wherein the one or more computer processors are configured to ascertain a duration of the squeezing based on the squeezing signal, andwherein the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal, and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

17. A delivery assist system comprising the delivery assist device according to any one of claims 1-8, the delivery assist system further comprising the uterine contraction monitor.

18. A method for assisting a parturient with vaginal delivery, the method comprising: hand gripping, by the parturient, a hand grip of a handle of a delivery assist device, the handle further including a body, the delivery assist device further including (a) a vibrator, configured to vibrate the handle, (b) a force sensor, configured to a sense a strength of squeezing of the hand grip, and (c) control circuitry, which is configured to (i) receive, from a uterine contraction monitor, a contraction signal indicative of a level of a uterine contraction of the parturient, and (ii) in response to the level of the uterine contraction, drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle; and upon sensing vibration of the handle, squeezing the hand grip by the parturient, so as to cause the control circuitry to transmit a squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to cease vibration in response to certain amount of hand squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein the control circuitry is configured to drive the vibrator to vibrate the handle in response to the level being a peak level of the uterine contraction.

21. The method according to claim 18, wherein, upon the squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient, the control circuitry is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

22. The method according to claim 18, further comprising coupling the handle of the delivery assist device to a handle of a labor bed on which the parturient is disposed.

23. The method according to claim 18, wherein upon the squeezing of the hand grip by the parturient, a console, which includes one or more computer processors, receives thesqueezing signal; and, based on the squeezing signal, generates an output regarding labor pushing by the parturient.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the output generated by the console includes an effectiveness of the labor pushing.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the delivery assist system is configured to ascertain the effectiveness of the labor pushing at least in part based on a temporal correlation between the squeezing signal and a peak level of the uterine contraction.

26. The method according to claim 23, wherein the output generated by the console includes the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip.

27. The method according to claim 23, wherein the output generated by the console includes a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

28. The method according to claim 23, wherein the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the control circuitry of the delivery assist device is configured to transmit the squeezing signal indicative of at least the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and a duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, and wherein the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal.

30. The method according to claim 28, wherein the one or more computer processors are configured to ascertain a duration of the squeezing based on the squeezing signal, and wherein the console is configured to generate the output based at least on the strength of the squeezing of the hand grip, as indicated in the squeezing signal, and the duration of the squeezing of the hand grip.

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