Phloroglucinol for acceleration of labour: double blind, randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effects of Phloroglucinol in acceleration of labour and its adverse effects on mother and foetus. METHODS: A double blind randomized, placebo controlled trial was conducted on 100 patients in active phase of uncomplicated labour selected by convenient sampling. Patients were given Phloroglucinol or Placebo (distilled water) intravenously. Progress of labour was plotted on Partogram. Any adverse effects of the drug on mother and fetus were noted. Student's t-test was applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: In patients receiving Phloroglucinol there was a mean 34% reduction in duration of 1st stage of labour and a mean 23% reduction in 2nd stage as compared to Placebo group respectively. Blood loss >500ml was observed in 2% patients. Otherwise there were no adverse effects on mother or foetus. CONCLUSION: Phloroglucinol shortens the duration of labour, is non toxic to both mother and fetus and does not cause primary post partum haemorrhage.

Premenstrual syndrome: frequency and severity in young college girls.

OBJECTIVES: To find out the frequency of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in young college girls and to describe the severity of emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms. METHODS: An observational study was conducted at the Khyber Medical College, Peshawar by convenient sampling on 384 young girls. Data was collected over two cycles by filling a 29 items shortened premenstrual assessment form based on Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire after taking consent from medical students. Results were given according to both criteria i.e. ICD-10 and DSM-IV. RESULTS: The frequency of premenstrual syndrome was 53% according to ICD-10 criteria, among which 42% was mild, 18.2% moderate and 31.7% severe. A total of 64 girls (18.2%) met the DSM-IV criteria for severe PMS or Premenstrual Dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The order of frequency of symptoms occurring in PMS was general body discomfort, anxiety, backache, fatigue and depression. Most frequently reported symptoms in PMDD group were anger, anxiety, stress, depression, fatigue and general body discomfort. CONCLUSION: Premenstrual syndrome is a common problem in young girls. Doctors should adopt comprehensive measures to reduce its incidence and improve the quality of life in the affected.

A review of septic induced abortion cases in one year at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar.

BACKGROUND: Working in a tertiary level hospital we get complicated cases as a result of termination or attempts at termination of unwanted pregnancies. Most of the patients that we get are complicated and need expensive treatments including surgery. This study was conducted to assess the out come of septic induced abortion cases in a year. METHODS: It was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, unit B, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, from 1.7.01 to 30.6.02. The data of a total of 28 patients admitted as emergency cases with septic induced abortion in above period were collected. History, management given, post operative care, complications and associated morbidity and mortality were taken into account and result compiled. RESULTS: 78.5% patients with unsafe abortions were multi gravida. Termination was attempted at home or other small centers. 57%, had history of surgical interference, 28.5% had used a mechanical device. 78.5% patients needed evacuation and curettage, 42% had laparotomy for visceral injuries. 15% patients had a subtotal hysterectomy. 57% patients had associated complications. 7.5% patients who came with septicemic shock died. CONCLUSION: Septic induced abortion is an important contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality, increasing the burden on not only the patients but health workers and their resources. However, it is preventable, and we suggest commitment to health education, family planning promotion and bringing down the rates of unsafe abortions as solutions to the problems.