Prostaglandin E2 in preinduction cervical ripening in postdate pregnancy

Unripe cervix is a widely recognised factor contributing to the failure to induce labour. Its presence is associated with high frequency of operative delivery, adverse fetal outcome and high maternal morbidity. MATERIAL: We studied the efficacy of PGE2 application for preinduction cervical ripening in women with postdate pregnancy. Two PGE2-containing preparations were used--Prepidil-gel and Prostin E2 (Upjohn). They were administered to 42 women with postdate pregnancy, unripe cervices and indications for labour induction. The study sample was divided into two groups: group I (20 women) received Prepidil-gel, group II (22 women)--Prostin E2. RESULTS: 85.7% of the women responded favourably to the ripening effect of PGE2. There was no difference in the efficacy, safety and outcome of pregnancy between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Prostaglandin PGE2 is effective for preinduction cervical ripening in women with postdated pregnancy. The authors give their preference to Prostin E2 because it is easier to apply.