Publication:

Comparison of progress of labour and maternofetal outcome among induced versus spontaneous labour in nulliparous women using modified WHO partograph

Background Induced or spontaneous labour has implication on the eventual mode of delivery and neonatal outcome. The aim of study is to compare the progress and outcome of induced versus spontaneous labour among nulliparous women using the modified WHO partograph.

Methods Comparative study involving nulliparous women in active phase of labour with the cervix at least 4cm dilated. Those whose labours were induced were compared with those on spontaneous labour; both labouring women were monitored using modified WHO partograph. Outcome measures include the mean duration of labour, the eventual mode of delivery and the Maternofetal outcome. Data were managed using SPSS software. Chi-square t-test and student t-test were used in data analysis. Level of significance was placed at P<0.05.

Results 115 women were compared in each group. There was no difference in mean age group, gestational age at delivery, cervical dilatation on admission, and the level of head of fifth palpable on admission. More women had spontaneous vaginal delivery among those in spontaneous labour (72.1% versus 64.7%) P=0.0001. There were less caesarean section among those in spontaneous labour. The mean Apgar scores were significantly better among induced labour babies (P=0.0001).

Conclusions Induced labour may increase the chances of caesarean section, it does not adversely affect the neonatal outcome. Therefore, it is advised induced labour can be a safe procedure among nulliparous women if labour is partographically monitored.