Publication:

Comparative study of misoprostol sublingually and dinoprostone gel intracervically for cervical ripening and induction of labor

Background Both Prostaglandin E1 and E2 analog are being used for cervical ripening. The aims of study was to compare the efficacy and safety profile of sublingual misoprostol (PGE2) and intracervical dinoprostone (PGE1) for cervical ripening and induction of labor.

Methods One hundred women with single live fetus and with gestational age of more than 37 weeks admitted for induction of labor were recruited for the study. Patients were randomized to receive either 25μg of misoprostol sublingually or dinaprostone gel (0.5mg) intracervically.

Results There was shorter induction to active phase, induction to delivery time intervals and less requirement of oxytocin augmentation in misoprostol group than dinoprostone gel group. Incidence of tachysystole was higher in misoprostol group than dinoprostone gel group (22% vs 10%) however this was not statistically significant. Mode of delivery, maternal and neonatal complications were similar in both the groups.

Conclusions Use of misoprostol in lower dose is a safe and cost-effective method for cervical ripening and induction of labor.