Induction of labour with vaginal prostaglandin tablet vs gel

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare outcomes in women whose labour was induced with vaginal prostaglandin E₂ tablets with those induced with prostaglandin gel. We compared outcomes of induction during two audits conducted in 2005 (PGE₂ gel) and 2009 (PGE₂ tablets). We found that there was no difference in induction rates; 21% in 2005 and 24% in 2009. The recommended dose of prostaglandin E₂ was exceeded in 6% and 17% of women induced with gel and tablets, respectively (p = 0.007). There was a difference in use of syntocinon to augment uterine contractions, 39% vs 58% for women induced with gel and tablets, respectively (p = 0.001). There was no difference in overall operative delivery, 37% in gel and 38% in tablets. There was no difference in the proportion of women who had vaginal birth within 24 h; 50% vs 42% for gel and tablet, respectively (p = 0.187). We conclude that compared to prostaglandin gel, women who received prostaglandin tablets were more likely to require syntocinon to augment contractions.

Keywords::

• Induction of Labour
• Prostaglandin Gel
• Prostaglandin Tablet
• Comparison between Gel and Tablet

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.