Induction of Labor Using Vaginal Misoprostol Alone or Combined with Intracervical Foley Catheter

Abstract

Background: Induction of labor is a common intervention in obstetric practice, which is a procedure used to stimulate uterine contractions during pregnancy to accomplish delivery prior to the onset of spontaneous labor.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to select the best method for induction of labor.

Patients and methods: This study was conducted on 72 pregnant women for induction of labor in Maternity Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University Hospitals. Pregnant women were divided into: group (A): 36 patients who underwent induction of labor by intra-vaginal misoprostol and group (B): 36 patients who underwent induction of labor by intravaginal misoprostol combined with intracervical Foley catheter. All patients were subjected to full history taking, proper examination. Primary and secondary outcomes were estimated for all the studied patients.

Results: Between the studied groups, there was statistically non-significant difference regarding parity, gestational age or birth weight. There was statistically significant difference between the studied groups regarding number of misoprostol doses, induction of active stage and induction of delivery time, occurrence of complications and occurrence of dystocia, tachysystole and vomiting.

Conclusion: This comparative study showed that the use of Foley’s with vaginal misoprostol results in a shorter induction to delivery time compared with vaginal misoprostol alone.