PROSTAGLANDIN VAGINAL SUPPOSITORIES - A SIMPLE AND SAFE APPROACH TO THE INDUCTION OF LABOR

Abstract

The results of 1000 consecutive unselected cases of induction of labor for medical or obstetric reasons using prostaglandin E2 suppositories are presented. The overall rate of failed induction resulting in a cesarean section in those patients with an unfavorable cervix has fallen from 42 to 2.5%. Only 27% of the entire series required augmentation of labor with i.v. oxytocin, the range being from 9.9% of multigravidas with a favorable cervix to 42.4% of primigravidas with an unfavorable cervix. Both low- and high-risk pregnancies are suitable for induction by this method and trials of vaginal breech delivery and of uterine scars were safely and successfully carried out. It was simple, safe and highly acceptable to patients and obstetricians alike in all cases in which a simple amniotomy would not suffice.