Potential use of electrohysterography in obstetrics: a review article

Abstract

Monitoring the uterine contraction during pregnancy is necessary to monitor labor progress, fetal and maternal well-being, and uterine activity. The aim of this review was to evaluate the performance of electrohysterography and to analyze the nature of uterine contraction. A search was undertaken using PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov database from 1 January 1950 to 1 November 2018. Search terms include: “Uterine” or “Uterus” or “Labor” or “Labour” and “electrical activity” or “electrohysterogram” or “electrohysterograph”. Reviewing the literature, electrohysterography showed a higher sensitivity for uterine contraction detection and was independent of body mass index, abdominal wall thickness, or maternal position enabling monitoring obese patients as well. Electrohysterography can enhance uterine monitoring throughout labor because of its noninvasiveness, adhesive properties, and reduced obesity sensitiveness. Electrohysterography should be available to safely improve intrapartum monitoring instead of the invasive intrauterine pressure catheter.

Keywords:

• Fetal monitoring
• labor
• preterm
• uterine contractions

Acknowledgments

The publication is approved by all authors and the responsible authorities of our Hospital.

Author contributions

RR designed the study with the assistance of SAS and CH. SAS and CH conducted the search and CH extracted the data. RR and CH analyzed the data. CH and SAS wrote the manuscript with the assistance and supervision of RR. RR reviewed the manuscript. All authors approved the final manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.