Induction of labor with intravaginal administration of misoprostol

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravaginal misoprostol for labor induction. Methods: 110 singleton term pregnancies with or without rupture of membranes were enrolled. Fractionated doses of misoprostol were applied (50–100 μg), every 6 h until a maximum of three doses or beginning of labor. Results: The average interval (±S.D.) from vaginal application to the beginning of active labor and to delivery were, respectively, 9.5±5.7 h and 14.8±9.5 h. Failed labor induction was observed in two cases (2%). Cesarean section rate was 14%. The incidence of tachysystole was 18% and hypersystole 4%, but these situations were associated with abnormal fetal heart rate pattern (hyperstimulation) in only 3%. No maternal side effects and neonatal adverse effects were noted. Conclusions: Intravaginal misoprostol administration with low doses is an effective and safe method for labor induction in term pregnancies, with or without rupture of membranes.