Publication:

A study on the role of partograph in monitoring labour in high risk pregnancies

Background The progress of labour can be graphically represented using the WHO partogragh, which helps in early detection and prevention of complication of labour, thus resulting in a better feto-maternal outcome especially in high risk cases.

Methods The study was undertaken at Hitech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar from March 2017 to February 2019 on 200 high risk patients. The progress of labour was plotted and assessed on Modified WHO partograph.

Results Majority of the cases were referred cases. Augmentation of labour was carried out in 56 cases. The mean duration of labour in the first stage was 5.4 hours and 4.1 hours in primi and multigravidas, whereas that of the second stage of labour are 37.5 minutes and 26.3 minutes respectively. 51 cases had prolonged labour and 15 cases had arrest of labour in the second stage. Maximum number of cases underwent LSCS due to abnormal labour progression. 8.7% of the cases had PPH and 2.3% had puerperal sepsis. Neonatal asphyxia was seen in 13.6% cases and 2.8% had early neonatal death.

Conclusion The results conclude that the WHO modified partograph is an inexpensive useful tool in monitoring the progress of labour and reducing foeto maternal morbidity in high risk groups.