Induction of labour in unripe cervix: an experience with 153 patients

ABSTRACT

Induction of labour was carried out in 153 term pregnant women, all nulliparous, with unfavourable cervix and adequate pelvis. A Foley's catheter was passed into the cervix at night. After spontaneous expulsion of the Foley's balloon, a 3 mg. prostaglandin E [PGE] 2 pessary was introduced into the cervix and placed extra amniotically. Labour was established in 53.5% of the cases and uneventful delivery was conducted within 6-8 hours of insertion of prostaglandin pessary. Oxytocin infusion was used in later period of first stage or at the onset of second stage of labour in 75% of the cases while 25% required no oxytocin. In 39.2% of the cases, progress in first stage of labour was delayed and an oxytocin infusion was needed in the earlier period. Induction-delivery interval was not more than 14 hours from the insertion of the pessary in all the cases. Caesarean section had to be done in 16.3% of the cases due to various reasons