Outcomes of Induction of Labor at a Cottage Hospital in the Nigerian Niger Delta Region

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Induction of labor (IOL) remains one of the commonly performed obstetric interventions worldwide when its benefits outweigh the risks. Several factors have been shown to be associated with successful outcome of IOL (achieving vaginal delivery). This study evaluated the outcomes of IOL and the determinants of successful outcome in Obio Cottage Hospital (OCH), Port-Harcourt. 

METHODS: It was a retrospective analysis of all pregnant women who had IOL in the Maternity unit of OCH between 1st January 2023 and 31st December, 2023. Data were analyzed using SPSS and logistic regression done for determinants of successful IOL. 

RESULTS: The prevalence of IOL was 17.2% of all deliveries while 87.5% of the parturient had vaginal delivery. Postdatism and dystocia were the commonest indication for IOL and caesarean section after failed IOL respectively. Estimated fetal weight of 2.5-3.9kg [AOR = 3.41, 95% CI (1.09- 5.32)], cervical ripening with combined Foley’s catheter and misoprostol [AOR = 3.76, 95% CI (1.23-7.36)] and misoprostol only [AOR = 1.68, 95% CI (1.12-5.72)]; and birth weight of 2.5-3.9kg [AOR = 4.35; 95% CI (1.82-6.01)] were the determinants of vaginal delivery among the parturient. 

CONCLUSION: In carefully selected parturient and with the use of appropriate method of cervical ripening, IOL is safe with high successful vaginal delivery rate and good maternal and perinatal outcomes.