Comparison of side effects and complications of intravaginal misoprostol with extra-amniotic prostaglandin F 2 alpha for termination of second trimester pregnancy

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study is to compare the maternal side effects and complications of Misoprostol and prostaglandin F2alpha for termination of second trimester pregnancy. Non randomized controlled [Experimental] study. This comparative study was carried out in Gynae Unit 1, Lady Willingdon Hospital Lahore from 1[st] Oct 2009 to 31[st] Mar 2010. Sixty patients admitted to gynecology ward for termination of pregnancy through the outpatient department were selected according to inclusion criteria of the study. They were divided into two groups of 30 patients each. Group 1 was given Misoprostol and group 2 PGF2alpha for induction of labour. Induction failure was higher in PGF2alpha group. Side effects were more frequent in the women receiving PGF2a than those receiving Misoprostol [56.67% vs. 43.33%; p=0.96]; diarrhea [26.67% vs. 20%] and fever [16.67% vs. 10%]. Incidence of nausea and vomiting were 6.67% in both the groups. In the same way, the complication of post partum hemorrhage was seen more in PGF2a group than the Misoprostol group [6.67% vs. 3.33%]. The incidence of retained placentas was 6.67% in both the groups. The average cost per treatment was Rs. 619 for PGF2a as compared with Rs. 135 for Misoprostol. Misoprostol is cost effective has fewer complications and side effects as compared to PGF2alpha