High and low dose oxytocin in augmentation of labor

Abstract

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of high dose oxytocin in the augmentation of labor.

Method: Two hundred pregnant women requiring augmentation of labor were randomly assigned to receive oxytocin by either a low dose protocol (1.5 microm/min initially, increased by 1.5 microm/min every 30 min) or a high dose protocol (4.5 microm/min initially, increased by 4.5 microm/min every 30 min).

Results: High dose of oxytocin was associated with a significant shortening of labor 4 (1.10-10) vs. 6 (1-10) h, p<0.0001 without a significant difference in cesarean delivery rate, neonatal and maternal outcome.

Conclusion: The use of high dose oxytocin is associated with significantly shorter labor without any adverse fetal and maternal effects.