A comparison between intravenous oxytocin and oral prostaglandin E2 for the induction of labour in parous patients

Summary

A prospective survey was carried out on 187 parous patients, in whom labour was induced by amniotomy and either intravenous oxytocin or oral prostaglandin E₂, (PGE₂).

The results show no significant difference in the performance of each group for the induction to delivery interval, the mode of delivery, the Apgar score at 5 minutes or for third stage anomalies.

The use of oral PGE₂offers advantages to the patient who is spared the discomfort, restriction and minor risks associated with an intravenous infusion; and to the midwife who does not have to make frequent checks on the flow rate if an infusion pump is not available. The method also permits the ancillary equipment, which may well be in limited supply, to be reserved for more ‘at risk’ cases.