[Differentiation of an outcome sample in elective labor induction with PGE2 by the oxytocin sensitivity test]

Abstract

The goal of the present study was to evaluate whether the implementation of an oxytocin sensitivity test in addition to pelvic scoring would improve prediction of successful induction and could lead to a further reduction in the already low rate of protracted labour and operative deliveries in cases of elective induction by means of prostaglandin (PG) E2 tablets. In order to establish the optimal dosage we compared the endocervical application of 1.5 mg PG E2 with 3 mg intravaginally. Out of 158 women without risk factors examined at term 73.5% decided to have labour induced. In the induction groups given endocervical or intravaginal PG E2 the delivery intervals were significantly shorter and the rate of operative deliveries was reduced. In comparison with those women who decided to await spontaneous onset of labour, the fetal outcome was, however, the same. The endocervical application of 1.5 mg PG E2 did not prove any better than 3 mg given intravaginally. The performance of a pretherapeutic oxytocin sensitivity test yielded additional information about the chances of inducing labour successfully. The results confirmed the efficacy and acceptance of this method of inducing labour.