Does Cervical Ripening with PGE₂ Affect Subsequent Uterine Activity in Labour?

Abstract

Uterine activity was measured quantitatively during subsequent labor after prostaglandin E₂ gel (PGE₂). Thirty primigravidae with a low Bishop score were included in this randomized double-blind study. Fewer women who received PGE₂ required subsequent surgical induction. The pattern of uterine activity was different. Cervical dilatation was achieved with less uterine activity in the PGE₂ group, especially during the shorter latent phase.