The study of low dose oral misoprostol solution and its comparison with intracervical dinoprostone gel for induction of labour

• Author Details:   
• Neelam Singh
• Mohita Agarwal
• Urvashi Verma ^*

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Background: Induction of labour is defined as iatrogenic stimulation of uterine contractions to accomplish delivery prior to the onset of spontaneous labour aimed at delivery by vaginal route. Dinoprostone has been used successfully for years as an agent for induction of labour. Misoprostol as an agent for induction of labour agent has rapidly gained popularity because it is inexpensive, stable at ambient temperatures, and easier to administer in comparison to dinoprostone and oxytocin.

Materials and Methods: During the study period 220 antenatal cases were randomly allocated into two groups consisted of 110 cases each group. One group received low dose oral misoprostol solution and other group received intracervical dinoprostone gel for induction of labour. All cases were analyzed and outcomes were evaluated.

Results: Successful induction was obtained in majority of cases in both the groups. However, misoprostol was more effective in inducing labour, improving the bishop score and less need for oxytocin augmentation then dinoprostone. Mean induction delivery rate was less in misoprostol group in both nulliparous and multiparous women. Cases with age less than equal to 30 years had a better induction delivery in misoprostol group. Induction done for the reason of post term pregnancy and pre-mature rupture of membrane had better delivery results in misoprostol group. Similarly, irrespective of period of gestation misoprostol had a significantly lower induction delivery duration.

Conclusion: Misoprost as a drug for induction of labour in low dose oral solution is as effective as the standard dinoprostone.