comparative study of vaginal prostaglandin E2 passaries with intravenous oxytocin for the induction of labour after spontaneous rupture of membranes

ABSTRACT

In a prospective randomized study, 60 patients were induced with 3 mg vaginal PE2 passeries or intravenous oxytocin. Oxytocin stimulation was associated with shorter labour and a lower incidence of abnormal cervimeteric progress, after spontaneous rupture of membranes Out of those patients given PGE2, 20% required a second dose after four hours of slow progress. 10% of primigravida subsequently developed abnormal labour and required augumentation by oxytocin to correct their uterine contractions. Two caesarean sections were carried out for disproportion and remaining 58 patients were delivered vaginally. PGE2 passeries were not associated with an increased incidence of hyperstimulation or sepsis. In conclusion oxytocin infusion is a safe, effective, but inconvenient method of induction of labour, while PGE2 passeries are safe, effective, more acceptable but expensive method of induction of labour