A systematic review and network meta-analysis comparing the use of Foley catheters, misoprostol, and dinoprostone for cervical ripening in the induction of labour

Predictive Factors for the Success of Vaginal Dinoprostone for the Induction of Labour

Objective

To evaluate factors predictive of the success of a slow-release dinoprostone vaginal insert for cervical ripening.

Methods

This retrospective study included 187 women who received dinoprostone vaginal inserts for cervical ripening. The participants were divided into two groups: the transvaginal delivery group (n = 87) and cesarean section termination group (n = 100). The correlation between the parameters present before cervical ripening with dinoprostone slow release and its success, as well as complications and adverse outcomes, was analyzed. Cesarean section predictors and area under the curve (AUC) were compared between the two Groups.

Results

There were statistical differences between the two groups in body mass index (BMI), height, cervical Bishop score, cephalic position, time of medication use, and fetal head position at the time of medication use (P<0.05). The optimal thresholds for identifying cesarean section in dinoprostone vaginal insert for cervical ripening were 162.5 for height (AUC = 0.61), 10.65 cm for amniotic fluid index (AUC = 0.6), S-2.5 for cephalic position (AUC = 0.61), 5.5 for bishop score of cervix (AUC = 0.65). The height, amniotic fluid index, cephalic position, and Bishop score of the cervix were included in the same model. The AUC value of the combined model was higher than the AUC value of the single factor.

Conclusion

The combined model was a better predictor of cesarean section in dinoprostone vaginal inserts for cervical ripening and labor induction. The success of cervical ripening with a dinoprostone slow-release vaginal insert can be predicted by the factors that can be recognized at admission.

Clinical Factors Associated with Intrapartum Presentation Change after Mechanical Cervical Ripening

OBJECTIVE

 The use of mechanical cervical ripening with balloon devices is common during induction of labor; however, there is risk for displacement of the fetal presenting part during its insertion. This study sought to investigate the clinical risk factors associated with an intrapartum presentation change from cephalic to noncephalic presentation after mechanical cervical ripening.

STUDY DESIGN

 Data were obtained from the Consortium on Safe Labor, a multicenter retrospective study that abstracted detailed labor and delivery information from electronic medical records in 19 hospitals across the United States. All women with fetal cephalic confirmed position on admission undergoing induction of labor with mechanical cervical ripening were included. Women who had a cesarean delivery for noncephalic presentation were compared with women who had a vaginal delivery or cesarean delivery for other indications. Models were adjusted for nulliparity, multiple gestation, and gestational age.

RESULTS

 A total of 3,462 women met inclusion criteria, with 1.3% (n = 46) having an intrapartum presentation change from cephalic to noncephalic presentation after mechanical cervical ripening. Those who had a cesarean delivery for an intrapartum presentation change were more likely to be nulliparous (82.6 vs. 65.4%, p = 0.01), less than 34 weeks' gestation (6.5 vs. 1.3%, p = 0.02), and have twins (6.5 vs. 1.2%, p = 0.02). In adjusted analysis, twins were associated with an increased odds of cesarean delivery for intrapartum presentation change (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.43; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25-15.77), whereas multiparity reduced the odds (aOR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.17-0.82).

CONCLUSION

 Nulliparity and multifetal gestation are associated with a cesarean delivery for an intrapartum presentation change after mechanical cervical ripening.

KEY POINTS

· Intrapartum presentation change after mechanical cervical ripening is low at 1.3%.. · Nulliparity and multifetal gestation are associated with a cesarean delivery for presentation change.. · There were no significant differences in neonatal morbidity by delivery status to delivery type..

Obesity at term: What to consider? How to deliver?

Obesity presents significant challenges during pregnancy, increasing the risk of complications and adverse outcomes for both mother and baby. With the rising prevalence of obesity among pregnant women, questions arise regarding optimal management, including timing of delivery and choice of delivery mode. Labour induction in obese women may require a combination of mechanical and pharmacological methods due to increased risk of failed induction. Caesarean section in obese women presents unique challenges, requiring comprehensive perioperative planning and specialized care to optimize outcomes. However, specific guidelines tailored to obese patients undergoing caesarean sections are lacking. Postpartum care should include vigilant monitoring for complications. Addressing obesity in pregnancy necessitates a multidisciplinary approach and specialized care to ensure the best outcomes.

Association of Prostaglandin Use for Cervical Ripening with Mode of Delivery in Small for Gestational Age versus Non-Small for Gestational Age Neonates

OBJECTIVE

 Prostaglandins (PGs) use for cervical ripening with small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses is controversial since it remains uncertain if use increases the chance of cesarean delivery (CD). We aimed to assess the association between PG use for cervical ripening and mode of delivery between SGA and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) neonates.

STUDY DESIGN

 Secondary analysis of the Nulliparous Pregnancy Outcomes Study: Monitoring Mothers-to-Be (nuMoM2b), a prospective observational cohort study of 10,038 nulliparas. We included women undergoing induction with nonanomalous fetuses in the cephalic presentation. Women with >2 cm cervical dilation or prior uterine scar were excluded. We assessed the association of PG use with CD among women with SGA and AGA neonates. SGA was defined as birth weight <10th percentile for gestational age and sex. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounders and test for interaction. Secondary outcomes included adverse neonatal outcomes, indication for CD, maternal hemorrhage, and chorioamnionitis.

RESULTS

 Among 2,353 women eligible, PGs were used in 54.8%, SGA occurred in 15.1%, and 35.0% had CD. The association between PG use and CD differed significantly (interaction p = 0.018) for SGA versus AGA neonates; CD occurred more often in SGA neonates exposed to PGs than not (35 vs. 22%, p = 0.009). PG use was not associated with CD among AGA neonates (36 vs. 36%, p = 0.8). This effect remained significant when adjusting for body mass index, race/ethnicity, and cervical dilation. Among SGA neonates, CD for "nonreassuring fetal status" was similar between PG groups. Among SGA neonates, PG use was not associated with adverse neonatal outcomes or postpartum hemorrhage but had a higher rate of chorioamnionitis (7.0 vs. 2.1%, p = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

 PG use was associated with a higher rate of CD in SGA but not AGA neonates; however, further studies are needed before PG use is discouraged with SGA neonates.

KEY POINTS

· PGs are commonly used for cervical ripening.. · PG use was associated with increased risk of cesarean delivery in SGA neonates.. · PG use was not associated with adverse neonatal outcomes..

Outpatient cervical ripening and labor induction with low-dose vaginal misoprostol reduces the interval to delivery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have summarized the evidence on the efficacy and safety of various outpatient cervical ripening methods. However, the method with the highest efficacy and safety profile has not been determined conclusively. We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy and safety of cervical ripening methods currently employed in the outpatient setting.

DATA SOURCES

With the assistance of an experienced medical librarian, we performed a systematic search of the literature using MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. We systematically searched electronic databases from inception to January 14, 2020.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We considered randomized controlled trials comparing a variety of methods for outpatient cervical ripening.

METHODS

We conducted a frequentist random effects network meta-analysis employing data from randomized controlled trials. We performed a direct, pairwise meta-analysis to compare the efficacy of various outpatient cervical ripening methods, including placebo. We employed ranking strategies to determine the most efficacious method using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve; a higher surface under the cumulative ranking curve value implied a more efficacious method. We assessed the following outcomes: time from intervention to delivery, cesarean delivery rates, changes in the Bishop score, need for additional ripening methods, incidence of Apgar scores <7 at 5 minutes, and uterine hyperstimulation.

RESULTS

We included data from 42 randomized controlled trials including 6093 participants. When assessing the efficacy of all methods, 25 μg vaginal misoprostol was the most efficacious in reducing the time from intervention to delivery (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 1.0) without increasing the odds of cesarean delivery, the need for additional ripening methods, the incidence of a low Apgar score, or uterine hyperstimulation. Acupressure (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.3) and primrose oil (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.2) were the least effective methods in reducing the time to delivery interval. Among effective methods, 50 mg oral mifepristone was associated with the lowest odds of cesarean delivery (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9).

CONCLUSION

When balancing efficacy and safety, vaginal misoprostol 25 μg represents the best method for outpatient cervical ripening.

Single-balloon catheter with concomitant vaginal misoprostol is the most effective strategy for labor induction: a meta-review with network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been conducted to summarize the evidence for the efficacy of various labor induction agents. However, the most effective agents or strategies have not been conclusively determined. We aimed to perform a meta-review and network meta-analysis of published systematic reviews to determine the efficacy and safety of currently employed pharmacologic, mechanical, and combined methods of labor induction.

DATA SOURCES

With the assistance of an experienced medical librarian, we performed a systematic search of the literature using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials. We systematically searched electronic databases from inception to May 31, 2021.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We considered systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials comparing different agents or methods for inpatient labor induction.

METHODS

We conducted a frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis employing data from randomized controlled trials of published systematic reviews. We performed direct pairwise meta-analyses to compare the efficacy of the various labor induction agents and placebo or no treatment. We performed ranking to determine the best treatment using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve. The main outcomes assessed were cesarean delivery, vaginal delivery within 24 hours, operative vaginal delivery, hyperstimulation, neonatal intensive care unit admissions, and Apgar scores of <7 at 5 minutes of birth.

RESULTS

We included 11 systematic reviews and extracted data from 207 randomized controlled trials with a total of 40,854 participants. When assessing the efficacy of all agents and methods, the combination of a single-balloon catheter with misoprostol was the most effective in reducing the odds of cesarean delivery and vaginal birth >24 hours (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9 for each). Among the pharmacologic agents, low-dose vaginal misoprostol was the most effective in reducing the odds of cesarean delivery, whereas high-dose vaginal misoprostol was the most effective in achieving vaginal delivery within 24 hours (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9 for each). Single-balloon catheter (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.8) and double-balloon catheter (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9) were the most effective in reducing the odds of operative vaginal delivery and hyperstimulation. Buccal or sublingual misoprostol (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9) and the combination of single-balloon catheter and misoprostol (surface under the cumulative ranking curve of 0.9) most effectively reduced the odds of abnormal Apgar scores and neonatal intensive care unit admissions.

CONCLUSION

The combination of a single-balloon catheter with misoprostol was the most effective method in reducing the odds for cesarean delivery and prolonged time to vaginal delivery. This method was associated with a reduction in admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit.

Methods for the induction of labor: efficacy and safety

This review assessed the efficacy and safety of pharmacologic agents (prostaglandins, oxytocin, mifepristone, hyaluronidase, and nitric oxide donors) and mechanical methods (single- and double-balloon catheters, laminaria, membrane stripping, and amniotomy) and those generally considered under the rubric of complementary medicine (castor oil, nipple stimulation, sexual intercourse, herbal medicine, and acupuncture). A substantial body of published reports, including 2 large network meta-analyses, support the safety and efficacy of misoprostol (PGE1) when used for cervical ripening and labor induction. Misoprostol administered vaginally at doses of 50 μg has the highest probability of achieving vaginal delivery within 24 hours. Regardless of dosing, route, and schedule of administration, when used for cervical ripening and labor induction, prostaglandin E2 seems to have similar efficacy in decreasing cesarean delivery rates. Globally, although oxytocin represents the most widely used pharmacologic agent for labor induction, its effectiveness is highly dependent on parity and cervical status. Oxytocin is more effective than expectant management in inducing labor, and the efficacy of oxytocin is enhanced when combined with amniotomy. However, prostaglandins administered vaginally or intracervically are more effective in inducing labor than oxytocin. A single 200-mg oral tablet of mifepristone seems to represent the lowest effective dose for cervical ripening. The bulk of the literature assessing relaxin suggests this agent has limited benefit when used for this indication. Although intracervical injection of hyaluronidase may cause cervical ripening, the need for intracervical administration has limited the use of this agent. Concerning the vaginal administration of nitric oxide donors, including isosorbide mononitrate, isosorbide, nitroglycerin, and sodium nitroprusside, the higher incidence of side effects with these agents has limited their use. A synthetic hygroscopic cervical dilator has been found to be effective for preinduction cervical ripening. Although a pharmacologic agent may be administered after the use of the synthetic hygroscopic dilator, in an attempt to reduce the interval to vaginal delivery, concomitant use of mechanical and pharmacologic methods is being explored. Combining the use of a single-balloon catheter with dinoprostone, misoprostol, or oxytocin enhances the efficacy of these pharmacologic agents in cervical ripening and labor induction. The efficacy of single- and double-balloon catheters in cervical ripening and labor induction seems similar. To date, the combination of misoprostol with an intracervical catheter seems to be the best approach when balancing delivery times with safety. Although complementary methods are occasionally used by patients, given the lack of data documenting their efficacy and safety, these methods are rarely used in hospital settings.

Vaginal misoprostol versus vaginal dinoprostone for cervical ripening and induction of labour: An individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Induction of labour (IOL) is common practice and different methods carry different effectiveness and safety profiles.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effectiveness, and maternal and perinatal safety outcomes of IOL with vaginal misoprostol versus vaginal dinoprostone using individual participant data from randomised clinical trials.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The following databases were searched from inception to March 2023: CINAHL Plus, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group Trial Register, Ovid Embase, Ovid Emcare, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), with viable singleton gestation, no language restrictions, and all published and unpublished data.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

An individual participant data meta-analysis was carried out.

MAIN RESULTS

Ten of 52 eligible trials provided individual participant data, of which two were excluded after checking data integrity. The remaining eight trials compared low-dose vaginal misoprostol versus dinoprostone, including 4180 women undergoing IOL, which represents 32.8% of all participants in the published RCTs. Of these, 2077 were assigned to low-dose vaginal misoprostol and 2103 were assigned to vaginal dinoprostone. Compared with vaginal dinoprostone, low-dose vaginal misoprostol had a comparable rate of vaginal birth. Composite adverse perinatal outcomes did not differ between the groups. Compared with vaginal dinoprostone, composite adverse maternal outcomes were significantly lower with low-dose vaginal misoprostol (aOR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65-0.98, P = 0.03, I2  = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Low-dose vaginal misoprostol and vaginal dinoprostone for IOL are comparable in terms of effectiveness and perinatal safety. However, low-dose vaginal misoprostol is likely to lead to a lower rate of composite adverse maternal outcomes than vaginal dinoprostone.

Outpatient cervical ripening with balloon catheters: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

One in four labors are induced. The process of cervical ripening can be lengthy and pre-labor hospitalization is required. Outpatient cervical ripening can be an attractive alternative.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of outpatient cervical ripening with a balloon catheter compared with inpatient balloon catheter or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ).

SEARCH STRATEGY

The PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception to October 15, 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials comparing the outpatient balloon catheter with inpatient balloon catheter or inpatient PGE2 for term cervical ripening.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed. The primary outcome was the cesarean delivery rate. The secondary outcomes included instrumental delivery, the time from intervention-to-birth, oxytocin augmentation, total hospital duration, and maternal/neonatal adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-nine randomized controlled trials with a total of 6004 participants were identified. No difference in the cesarean delivery rate was revealed among the three interventions. Compared with inpatient balloon catheter, outpatient balloon catheter had shorter total hospital duration (mean difference -8.58, 95% confidence interval -17.02 to -1.10). No differences were revealed in the time from intervention-to-birth, instrumental delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, 5-min Apgar score less than 7, umbilical cord arterial pH less than 7.1, and neonatal intensive care unit admission among the three interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Outpatient balloon catheter in low-risk term pregnancies is an available option that could be considered for cervical ripening. The safety and effectiveness are comparable to inpatient cervical ripening methods.

[Comparison of vaginal prostaglandins with oral misoprostol as a second line of cervical ripening after using a cervical balloon catheter]

OBJECTIVE

To compare vaginal prostaglandins with oral misoprostol as a second line of cervical ripening after using a cervical balloon catheter.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a retrospective monocentric study (Lille, France), according to a "before"/"after" design. The inclusion criteria were a singleton pregnancy, with a fetus in cephalic presentation, a term >37 WA, with a cervix having a Bishop score lower than 6 after a first line of maturation by cervical balloon catheter. Two groups were formed: "before" corresponding to the continuation of maturation by vaginal prostaglandins, from March 2019 to November 2019, and "after": corresponding to the continuation of maturation by oral misoprostol, from June 2020 to December 2020. The primary outcome was vaginal delivery rate.

RESULTS

One hundred women were included in each group. The rate of vaginal delivery was similar between the 2 groups (76% vs 81%, p=0.39), as were the times between the start of induction and the birth and between the start of induction and the transition to birth room. There was no difference in the indication for caesarean section, with in particular an identical rate of caesarean sections for induction failure (p=0.52). Subgroup analysis in obese women showed a significantly higher rate of vaginal delivery in the "after" group (OR=4.17;95% CI [1.02;17.07]).

CONCLUSION

The vaginal delivery rate is similar when using vaginal prostaglandins or oral misoprostol as second line cervical ripening after use of a cervical balloon catheter.

Optimal cervical-ripening method for labor induction in Japan after the era of controlled-release dinoprostone vaginal insert

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the predictive value of obstetric findings when using dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2 [PGE2]) vaginal inserts for cervical ripening, and to assess the optimal cervical-ripening method between PGE2 vaginal insert and/or cervical dilators.

METHODS

This prospective observational study enrolled pregnant women who underwent cervical ripening for labor induction in 37-41 week' gestation in 2020. In evaluation 1, optimal obstetric findings predictive of rapid cervical ripening using PGE2 were assessed. In evaluation 2, the duration from PGE2 administration to labor onset and perinatal outcomes were compared between cases in which only PGE2 was used and cases that were treated with PGE2 after mechanical cervical dilators (Dilapan®) for extremely immature cervical ripening (uterine cervical os <2 cm).

RESULTS

In evaluation 1, uterine dilatation before the use of a PGE2 vaginal insert was mostly correlated with the time from PGE2 administration to labor onset (r = -0.428, p < 0.001). When the uterine cervical os dilatation was ≥2 cm, a shorter time-to-labor onset was found. In addition, os dilatation, effacement, and station at the time of PGE2 vaginal insert removal also significantly progressed. In evaluation 2, the median duration from PGE2 administration to labor onset was 1740 min in cases where only PGE2 was used, and 610 min in those where PGE2 was used after mechanical cervical dilators (p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

PGE2 vaginal inserts are relatively effective when the uterine cervical os is ≥2 cm in diameter. However, in cases of extremely immature cervical-ripening, it was feasible to use PGE2 vaginal inserts before mechanical cervical dilatation.

Impact of Introducing a Controlled-Release Dinoprostone Vaginal Insert for Labor Induction: A Retrospective Single-Center Study in Japan

AIM

Cervical ripening is commonly performed before oxytocin administration during labor induction in pregnant women with an unfavorable cervix. In Japan, a controlled-release Dinoprostone vaginal insert (CR-DVI) was approved in 2020. Although many studies have compared the mechanical methods of ripening and prostaglandins, few have examined the impact of additional options for labor induction. This study aimed to assess the impact of CR-DVI as an additional option for labor induction in women with an unfavorable cervix.

METHODS

In this single-center retrospective study conducted in Japan, 265 participants were divided into two groups: before (January 2018 to May 2020) and after (June 2020 to November 2022) CR-DVI introduction. Before CR-DVI was introduced, hygroscopic dilators were used for all cases instead. On the other hand, after the introduction of CR-DVI, the first choice for cervical ripening was CR-DVI. The CR-DVI was retained vaginally for up to 12 hours after insertion. However, if hyper-stimulation or non-reassuring fetal status was suspected, or if a new membrane rupture occurred, it was removed immediately according to the removal criteria. Oxytocin infusions were used during both periods if needed. We compared delivery and neonatal outcomes between the groups.

RESULTS

The 265 participants were divided into two groups: before (n=116) and after (n=149) CR-DVI introduction. There were no significant differences in maternal characteristics except for the primiparous proportion. CR-DVI was used in 93% of cases after introduction. Hygroscopic dilators also continued to be used; however, their use decreased to about 34%. The vaginal delivery rate was significantly higher after the introduction of CR-DVI than before its introduction (50.9% vs. 66.4%; p=0.01). Multivariable analysis revealed a significantly higher rate of vaginal delivery after CR-DVI introduction. Of the 149 cases in which a CR-DVI was used, 111 (79.9%) were removed before 12 hours. There were no significant differences in neonatal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The rate of vaginal delivery was higher after CR-DVI introduction than before its introduction, and adverse pregnancy outcomes did not increase. Therefore, introducing CR-DVI as an option for labor induction may increase the probability of vaginal delivery. Safety can also be ensured by adhering to the removal criteria.

Comparison of cesarean delivery rates after 3 methods of cervical ripening among obese women at or after 41 weeks - Secondary analysis of two French randomized controlled trials: MAGPOP and CYTOPRO

OBJECTIVE

To compare cesarean rates and maternal and neonatal morbidity according to the cervical ripening method used among obese pregnant women requiring induction of labor at or after 41 weeks of gestation.

DESIGN

A secondary analysis of two multicenter randomized controlled trials conducted in French maternity units between 2015 and 2018.

PARTICIPANTS

336 women with a body mass index ≥30 kg/m2, a pregnancy ≥41 weeks, and an induction of labor requiring cervical ripening.

INTERVENTIONS

Cervical ripening with a PGE2 dinoprostone pessary (Propess®), or low-dose vaginal PGE1 (misoprostol) or a double-balloon catheter.

MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS

The rates of cesarean delivery did not differ significantly according to the cervical ripening method (PGE2 pessary vs PGE1, RR: 1.18, 95% CI: 0.80-1.75; PGE2 pessary vs double balloon catheter: RR, 0.88, 95% CI: 0.60-1.29), p = 0.52; double balloon catheter vs PGE1, RR: 1.34, 95% CI: 0.77-2.32, p = 0.29). More oxytocin was required for women from the double-balloon group compared to those from both the PGE1 and PGE2 pessary groups (respectively, RR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.08-1.58, p = 0.005; RR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.03-1.32, p = 0.01). The risk of perineal tears or episiotomy was significantly lower for women induced with the PGE2 pessary than with PGE1 (0.85; 95% CI: 0.74-0.99), p = 0.03).

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

No cervical ripening method was associated with a lower cesarean rate in obese women who required cervical ripening from 41 weeks. Further trials are required among obese women to determine the cervical ripening method most efficacious for reducing the cesarean rate.

Accurate evaluation of the progress of delivery with transperineal ultrasound may improve vaginal delivery: a single-center retrospective study

Although digital examination of the cervix is the standard method used worldwide for evaluating the progress of delivery, it is subjective. Transperineal ultrasound (TPU) is combined with digital evaluation for accurate assessment of fetal descent and rotation of the advanced part of the fetus. This retrospective study aimed to clarify the impact of introducing TPU on perinatal outcomes at Mie University Hospital. We analyzed singleton pregnant women who underwent delivery management at our hospital between April 2020 and March 2021. Perinatal outcomes were compared between patients who used TPU (TPU+ group) and those who did not (TPU- group). The angle of progression and head direction were measured. The rate of vaginal delivery was significantly increased (90.9% vs. 71.6%; P = 0.0017), and the second stage of labor was significantly prolonged in the TPU+ group (148.1 vs. 75.8 min; P < 0.0001). A significant difference was observed in termination in the latent phase between the TPU+ group [3/8 (37.5%) cases] and TPU- group [20/25 (80.0%) cases] (P = 0.036). The rate of vaginal delivery can be increased through accurate evaluation of the progress of delivery with TPU.

The Influence of Diabetes on Labor Induction with Dinoprostone Vaginal Inserts

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare duration of labor induction between diabetic and nondiabetic women receiving dinoprostone vaginal insert (10 mg).

STUDY DESIGN

This is a secondary analysis of two large randomized controlled trials using dinoprostone vaginal inserts for labor induction. We compare time to active labor, overall delivery, and vaginal delivery between diabetic and nondiabetic women undergoing induction of labor with a 10-mg dinoprostone vaginal insert.

RESULTS

Diabetic women receiving dinoprostone vaginal insert had a longer time to onset of active labor, overall delivery, and vaginal delivery than their nondiabetic counterparts. There was no difference in abnormal labor affecting fetal heart rate pattern in diabetic women compared with nondiabetic women. The rates of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia were higher in diabetic women.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes may represent an independent factor associated with prolonged induction among women undergoing induction of labor with dinoprostone. Dinoprostone is well tolerated in both diabetic and nondiabetic women.

KEY POINTS

· Diabetic women receiving DVI have slower labor curves than nondiabetic women.. · Nulliparous diabetic women took longer to achieve active labor, overall delivery, and vaginal delivery than nondiabetic women.. · Parous diabetic women took longer to achieve vaginal delivery than nondiabetic women..

Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of Sublingual Versus Oral Misoprostol for the Induction of Labor: A Randomized Open-Label Study

Introduction Misoprostol (prostaglandin E1 analog) is being used for the induction of labor by vaginal, oral, and sublingual routes. Oral misoprostol is the preferred route for induction of labor, but the use of sublingual misoprostol appears promising due to a faster onset of action. This study was done to compare the efficacy and safety of oral and sublingual misoprostol for induction of labor in term pregnancy. Materials and methods One hundred and sixty patients were randomly allocated to one of the two groups to receive 50 micrograms of oral and sublingual misoprostol four hourly for a maximum of six doses. Primigravida at 37-42 weeks of gestation with singleton pregnancy, cephalic presentation, Bishop score (<5), and reassuring fetal heart rate were included in the study. Misoprostol dose was withheld if the active phase of labor was reached or if the cervix was favorable for amniotomy (Bishop score greater than or equal to eight). The change in the Bishop score with misoprostol was studied along with adverse effects and neonatal outcomes. Results The mean number of 50 mcg misoprostol doses required was significantly less in the sublingual group (2.94±0.97 versus 2.13±0.92; p<0.0001). The rate of change of the mean Bishop score was faster in the sublingual group. After four hours of the first dose, the mean Bishop score changed to 3.52±2.14 versus 4.68±2.34 (p=0.001), and, similarly, after eight hours, it was 10.48±2.59 versus 11.39±2.06, and this difference was statistically significant (p=0.015). The mean induction delivery interval was significantly lower in the sublingual group. The need for labor augmentation, mode of delivery, and adverse effects were similar in both groups. The incidence of meconium-stained liquor and NICU admission was also similar in both groups. Conclusion Sublingmisoprostolstol has a short induction delivery interval and comparable side effects when compared to omisoprostolstol. Sublingmisoprostolstol is recommended for induction of labor at term.

A Retrospective Comparative Study of the Effect of Controlled-Release Dinoprostone Vaginal Delivery System (Propess®) and Mechanical Methods for Cervical Ripening in Nulliparous Women in Late-Term Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

The effects of the controlled-release dinoprostone vaginal delivery system (Propess®) and mechanical methods for cervical ripening in nulliparous women in late-term pregnancy were compared retrospectively.

METHODS

This retrospective comparative study included 46 nulliparous pregnant women (24 in the Propess® group and 22 in the mechanical methods groups) with a low Bishop score (≤1) who needed labor induction at 41 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome was the success rate of cervical ripening (= Bishop score >6 or vaginal delivery) by the next day following the insertion of Propess® only or mechanical cervical dilation only. In the cases in which cervical ripening was unsuccessful, other methods were performed, and the success rate of cervical ripening the day after was compared as the secondary outcome.

RESULTS

As the primary outcome, there was not a significant difference in the success rate of cervical ripening between the Propess® and mechanical methods groups (21 vs. 22%, p = 0.88). As for the secondary outcomes, there was not a significant difference in the total success rate of cervical ripening between the two groups (75 (5+13/24) vs. 73 (5+11/22)%, p = 0.86)). Of the unsuccessful cervical ripening cases as secondary outcomes, the Bishop score of all was ≤2 on the second day of hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

The combined use of Propess® and mechanical methods was effective for cervical ripening in nulliparous women with a low Bishop score in late-term pregnancy, regardless of order.

Comparison of the efficacy between controlled-release dinoprostone delivery system (PROPESS) and Cook's double balloon catheter plus oxytocin: A retrospective single-center study in Japan

AIMS

To compare the efficacy of the controlled-release dinoprostone delivery system (PROPESS) and Cook's double balloon catheter (DBC) plus oxytocin as induction treatment.

METHODS

A total of 197 term pregnant women with unfavorable cervix were admitted for scheduled induction and enrolled retrospectively (PROPESS, 113; Cook's DBC plus oxytocin, 84). The main birth outcomes were cervical ripening at the treatment-end and 24 h after the treatment-start, and rate of vaginal birth. Logistic regression and propensity score matching analyses were performed to evaluate the association between the outcomes and clinical characteristics including which treatment was selected.

RESULTS

The choice of PROPESS was associated with the success of cervical ripening at 24 h after (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-4.26, p = 0.024) and increased the rate of vaginal birth (adjusted OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.04-3.98, p = 0.039). Similar trends in the association between PROPESS and birth outcomes were maintained after adjusting for propensity scores (p = 0.072 and p = 0.163, respectively). However, some of the women with gestational age of early 39 weeks and low Bishop scores could achieve cervical ripening at 24 h after using Cook's DBC plus oxytocin, and none by PROPESS.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest the possibility of slight advantages of PROPESS for scheduled induction of labor. In women with early term and extremely low Bishop scores, Cook's DBC plus oxytocin may be a superior or alternative treatment to PROPESS. Therefore, the optimal choice of induction treatment should be managed on an individual basis.

Women satisfaction on choosing the cervical ripening method: Oral misoprostol versus balloon catheter

Objective

Induction of labor concerns about 29 % of women in Unites States and 33 % in Europe. Among the various methods for cervical ripening, the efficacy and safety profiles of oral misoprostol and balloon catheter are comparable, but data in the literature on maternal satisfaction during induction of labor are few. The objective of this study was to assess the satisfaction of women who chose the method of cervical ripening, i.e. either balloon catheter or oral misoprostol, for induction of labor.

Study design

This retrospective study asked women who had undergone induction of labor between February 1, 2020 and February 28, 2021. After receiving verbal and written information, the choice of method between oral misoprostol and balloon catheter was left to the patient's free appreciation. Satisfaction was assessed by means of a questionnaire distributed to all women during their stay in the maternity unit. The principal assessment criterion was based on women' inclination to choose the same cervical ripening method if induction of labor were to prove necessary in a future pregnancy, and their willingness to recommend this method to a friend. Univariate analyses were conducted using Student's t-test, Chi-2 test or Fisher's exact test.

Results

On 575 women eligible for analysis, 365 (63.5 %) of these women replied to the satisfaction questionnaire. Of this number, 236 (64.7 %) chose cervical ripening by balloon catheter, and 129 (35.3 %) by oral misoprostol. No significant difference was found between the two groups: 68.2 % of women in the balloon catheter group would opt for the same method of cervical ripening if it proved necessary in a future pregnancy and 64.7% would recommend it to a pregnant friend, versus 65.9 % and 63.6 % in the oral misoprostol group, respectively. Women were overall pleased to be able to choose their method of cervical ripening: 90.5 % of patients in the balloon catheter group and 95.3 % in the oral misoprostol group.

Conclusions

When women choose the method of cervical ripening, satisfaction is overall good, irrespective of the method, whether by balloon catheter or misoprostol.

Risk of Cesarean Delivery after Vaginal Inserts with Prostaglandin Analogs and Single-Balloon Catheter Used for Cervical Ripening and Induction of Labor

(1) Background: Induction of labor is currently the most frequently performed procedure in modern obstetrics, referring to more than one in five women, and it is postulated that the percentage of labor induction will increase. (2) Methods: In total, 2935 patients in uncomplicated full-term pregnancy fulfilled the study inclusion criteria and underwent induction of labor. Pregnant women were divided into three groups: IOL with Dinoprostone, Misoprostol vaginal suppositories, and Foley catheter. Outcomes, including cesarean section rates, time to delivery, and cesarean section indications, were analyzed. (3) Results: There was statistically significantly more cesarean sections within 24 h in the Misoprostol group in comparison with the Dinoprostone and Foley catheter groups (p < 0.0001). The percentage of patients who had a cesarean section due to clinically diagnosed threatened fetal asphyxia was 63% in the Dinoprostone group, 81.3% in the Misoprostol group, and 55.3% in the Foley catheter group. There were statistically significantly more cesarean deliveries due to nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns within 24 h in the Misoprostol group in comparison with the Dinoprostone and Foley catheter groups (p = 0.0031 and p = 0.0363). (4) Conclusions: Misoprostol may cause a more turbulent and violent course of labor, with a higher rate of increased incidence of nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns and cesarean deliveries. The use of a Dinoprostone vaginal insert or Foley catheter may provide longer labor, although still within 48 h, with a lower risk of cesarean section caused by nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns.

The 300 versus 300 Study-Low Volume versus High Volume Single Balloon Catheter for Induction of Labor: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

The use of a Foley catheter is one of the oldest known methods of labor induction. Therefore, protocols using different volumes of Foley catheter balloons have been developed and tested to accurately determine their effectiveness. In this study, it was decided to retrospectively evaluate two induction of labor (IOL) protocols. The last 300 eligible patients who met the criteria and underwent the low-volume balloon protocol (40-60 mL) IOL were selected. Then next, 300 patients who met the criteria and underwent high-volume balloon (80-100 mL) IOL were selected. Outcomes included time to delivery and parturition type, oxytocin augmentation, operative deliveries and application of intrapartum anesthesia. Overall, the majority of patients delivered within 24 h. Patients who received a high-volume Foley catheter had statistically significantly more vaginal deliveries. The mean-time to delivery in the high-volume catheter group was statistically significantly shorter than in the low-volume catheter group. Patients who received a high-volume Foley catheter required statistically significantly less oxytocin augmentation during induction of labor compared to patients with a low-volume Foley catheter. Regardless of the balloon volume used, the percentage of operative deliveries remained at a similar, low level (8.36% and 2.14%). Regardless of the catheter volume used, the majority of patients chose epidural over intravenous anesthesia. In conclusion, a high-volume balloon Foley catheter IOL is characterized by an increased percentage of vaginal deliveries, shortened time to delivery regardless of the type of delivery, and lower need for oxytocin augmentation.

Results of Induction of Labor with Prostaglandins E1 and E2 (The RIPE Study): A Real-World Data Analysis of Obstetrical Effectiveness and Clinical Outcomes of Pharmacological Induction of Labor with Vaginal Inserts

Despite extensive knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for childbirth, the course of labor induction is often unpredictable. Therefore, labor induction protocols using prostaglandin analogs have been developed and tested to assess their effectiveness in labor induction unequivocally. A total of 402 women were collected into two groups-receiving vaginal Misoprostol or vaginal Dinoprostone for induction of labor (IOL). Then, the patients were compared in groups depending on the agent they received and their gestational age. Most patients delivered within 48 h, and most of these patients had vaginal parturition. Patients who received the Dinoprostone vaginal insert required statistically significantly more oxytocin administration than patients who received the Misoprostol vaginal insert. Patients who received the Misoprostol vaginal insert used anesthesia during labor statistically more often. Patients who received Misoprostol vaginal inserts had a statistically significantly shorter time to delivery than those with Dinoprostone vaginal inserts. The prevalence of hyperstimulation was similar in all groups and remained low. Vaginal Misoprostol-based IOL is characterized by a shortened time to delivery irrespective of the parturition type, and a lower need for oxytocin augmentation, but also by an increased demand for intrapartum analgesia administration. A vaginal Dinoprostone-based IOL protocol might be considered a more harmonious and desirable option in modern perinatal care.

Comparison of Obstetric Outcomes Between Controlled-Release Dinoprostone Vaginal Delivery System (PROPESS) and Administration of Oral Dinoprostone for Labor Induction in Multiparous Women at Term

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the rate of vaginal delivery and adverse outcomes of a controlled-release dinoprostone vaginal delivery system (PROPESS) and the administration of oral dinoprostone for labor induction in multiparous women at term.

METHODS

This retrospective case-controlled study included 92 multiparous pregnant women (46 and 46 in the PROPESS and oral dinoprostone groups, respectively) who required labor induction at ≥37 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome was the success rate of vaginal delivery following the insertion of PROPESS only or the administration of oral dinoprostone (up to six tablets) only. The secondary outcomes were uterine tachysystole with non-reassuring fetal status, the proportion of cases requiring pre-delivery oxytocin, and the rate of cesarean delivery.

RESULTS

The proportion of pregnant women who delivered vaginally as the primary outcome was significantly higher in the PROPESS group (33/46 [72%]) than in the oral dinoprostone group (16/46 [35%], p < 0.01). In the secondary outcomes, the proportion of cases requiring pre-delivery oxytocin in the PROPESS group was significantly lower than that in the oral dinoprostone group (24% vs. 57%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In multiparous women at term, PROPESS may be able to induce labor and lead to a higher vaginal delivery rate without adverse outcomes compared to oral dinoprostone.

Role of mode of induction and delivery and women's satisfaction after induction of labour at term: An observational study

This cross-sectional study aimed at evaluating the impact of different modalities of induction of labour (IOL) and delivery on levels of woman' satisfaction. All women aged 18 years or older, who underwent IOL for at-term pregnancy (≥41 weeks of gestation) in randomly selected days during the study period in 6 participating centres were eligible for the study. The questionnaire investigated women's opinion regarding information about induction, pain control, length of induction, their experience about induction, labour and delivery and their attitude towards induction in a subsequent pregnancy. Women were also asked to fill in the Italian version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R). A total of 300 women entered the study. The answer to the question about a "positive attitude towards induction in a subsequent pregnancy was "absolutely yes" or "yes" respectively in the 77.8%, 52.8% and 48.6% of women who were induced with oral drugs, vaginal drugs and Cook balloon (heterogeneity chi-square p = 0.05). The corresponding values for women who delivered vaginally or by caesarean section (CS) were 63.3% and 36.4% (chi-square p = 0.0009). The mean BSS-R total score was higher among women who underwent IOL with oral drugs than with vaginal drugs (p < 0.0001) or Cook Balloon (p < 0.0001), and among women who delivered vaginally than in those who delivered by CS (p < 0.0001). Women were asked "What do you think is important for a method of induction?": 47.3% (95% CI 41.7%-53.0%) of women answered that "should make the induction as painless as possible", 47.0% (95% CI 41.4%-52.7%) "should induce labour quickly", 44.3% (95% CI 38.8%-50.0%) "should be safe for baby". This study showed that vaginal delivery was associated with a higher rate of satisfaction among induced women. Considering mode of induction, oral drugs were associated with a higher level of satisfaction. Control of pain and quick induction were the most appreciated characteristics.

Prediction of an effective cervical ripenning in the induction of labour using vaginal dinoprostone

To develop a predictive model for successful cervical ripening in women that undergo induction of labour by means of a vaginal prostaglandin slow-release delivery system (Propess®).  Prospective observational study on 204 women that required induction of labour between February 2019 and May 2020 at "La Mancha Centro" hospital in Alcázar de San Juan, Spain. The main variable studied was effective cervical ripening (Bishop score > 6). Using multivariate analysis and binary logistic regression, we created three initial predictive models (model A: Bishop Score + Ultrasound cervical length + clinical variables (estimated fetal weight, premature rupture of membranes and body mass index)); model B: Ultrasound cervical lenght + clinical variables; and model C: Bishop score + clinical variables) to predict effective cervical ripening. All three predictive models obtained (A, B and C) presented good predictive capabilities, with an area under the ROC curve ≥ 0.76. Predictive model C, composed of the variables: gestational age (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.18-2.03, p = 0.002), premature rupture of membranes (OR 3.21 95% CI 1.34-7.70, p = 0.09) body mass index (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87-0.98, p = 0.012), estimated fetal weight (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.99-1.00, p = 0.068) and Bishop score (OR 1.49 95% CI 1.18-1.81, p = 0.001), is presented as the model of choice with an area under the ROC curve of 0.76 (95% CI 0.70-0.83, p < 0.001). A predictive model composed of the variables: gestational age, premature rupture of membranes, body mass index, estimated fetal weight and Bishop score upon admission presents good capabilities in predicting successful cervical ripening following administration of prostaglandins. This tool could be useful in making clinical decisions with regard to induction of labour.

Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Activates S1PR3 to Induce a Proinflammatory Phenotype in Human Myometrial Cells

One of the common mechanisms responsible for obstetric complications, affecting millions of women every year, is abnormal uterine contractility. Despite the critical importance of this process for women's health, the mechanisms of uterine contraction regulation remain poorly understood. The initiation of uterine smooth muscle (myometrial) contraction is an inflammatory process, accompanied by upregulation of proinflammatory genes and cytokine release. In this study, we show that sphingolipid metabolism is activated during human labor and that sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), the main bioactive sphingolipid, may modify the myometrial proinflammatory phenotype. Our data in both primary and immortalized human myometrial cells show that exogenous S1P induces a proinflammatory gene signature and upregulates the expression of known inflammatory markers of parturition, such as IL8 and COX2. Using expression of IL8 as a readout for S1P activity in myometrial cells, we established that these S1P effects are mediated through the activation of S1P receptor 3 (S1PR3) and downstream activation of ERK1/2 pathways. Inhibition of S1PR3 in human myometrial cells attenuates upregulation of IL8, COX2, and JUNB both at the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, activation of S1PR3 with a receptor-specific agonist recapitulated the effects seen after treatment with exogenous S1P. Collectively, these results suggest a signaling pathway activated by S1P in human myometrium during parturition and propose new targets for development of novel therapeutics to alter uterine contractility during management of preterm labor or labor dystocia.

Mechanical methods for induction of labour

BACKGROUND

Mechanical methods were the first methods developed to ripen the cervix and induce labour. During recent decades they have been substituted by pharmacological methods. Potential advantages of mechanical methods, compared with pharmacological methods may include reduction in side effects that could improve neonatal outcomes. This is an update of a review first published in 2001, last updated in 2012.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness and safety of mechanical methods for third trimester (> 24 weeks' gestation) induction of labour in comparison with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) (vaginal and intracervical), low-dose misoprostol (oral and vaginal), amniotomy or oxytocin.

SEARCH METHODS

For this update, we searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and reference lists of retrieved studies (9 January 2018). We updated the search in March 2019 and added the search results to the awaiting classification section of the review.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Clinical trials comparing mechanical methods used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with pharmacological methods. Mechanical methods include: (1) the introduction of a catheter through the cervix into the extra-amniotic space with balloon insufflation; (2) introduction of laminaria tents, or their synthetic equivalent (Dilapan), into the cervical canal; (3) use of a catheter to inject fluid into the extra-amniotic space (EASI). This review includes the following comparisons: (1) specific mechanical methods (balloon catheter, laminaria tents or EASI) compared with prostaglandins (different types, different routes) or with oxytocin; (2) single balloon compared to a double balloon; (3) addition of prostaglandins or oxytocin to mechanical methods compared with prostaglandins or oxytocin alone.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and assessed risk of bias. Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

This review includes a total of 112 trials, with 104 studies contributing data (22,055 women; 21 comparisons). Risk of bias of trials varied. Overall, the evidence was graded from very-low to moderate quality. All evidence was downgraded for lack of blinding and, for many comparisons, the effect estimates were too imprecise to make a valid judgement.   Balloon versus vaginal PGE2: there may be little or no difference in vaginal deliveries not achieved within 24 hours (risk ratio (RR) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82 to 1.26; 7 studies; 1685 women; low-quality evidence) and there probably is little or no difference in caesarean sections (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.09; 28 studies; 6619 women; moderate-quality evidence) between induction of labour with a balloon catheter and vaginal PGE2. A balloon catheter probably reduces the risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate (FHR) changes (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.67; 6 studies; 1966 women; moderate-quality evidence), serious neonatal morbidity or perinatal death (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.93; 8 studies; 2757 women; moderate-quality evidence) and may slightly reduce the risk of aneonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.04; 3647 women; 12 studies; low-quality evidence). It is uncertain whether there is a difference in serious maternal morbidity or death (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.12; 4 studies; 1481 women) or five-minute Apgar score < 7 (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.14; 4271 women; 14 studies) because the quality of the evidence was found to be very low and low, respectively. Balloon versus low-dose vaginal misoprostol: it is uncertain whether there is a difference in vaginal deliveries not achieved within 24 hours between induction of labour with a balloon catheter and vaginal misoprostol (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.39; 340 women; 2 studies; low-quality evidence). A balloon catheter probably reduces the risk of uterine hyperstimulation with FHR changes (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.85; 1322 women; 8 studies; moderate-quality evidence) but may increase the risk of a caesarean section (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.60; 1756 women; 12 studies; low-quality evidence). It is uncertain whether there is a difference in serious neonatal morbidity or perinatal death (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.12 to 2.66; 381 women; 3 studies), serious maternal morbidity or death (no events; 4 studies, 464 women), both very low-quality evidence, and five-minute Apgar score < 7 (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.97; 941 women; 7 studies) and NICU admissions (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.63; 1302 women; 9 studies) both low-quality evidence. Balloon versus low-dose oral misoprostol: a balloon catheter probably increases the risk of a vaginal delivery not achieved within 24 hours (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.46; 782 women, 2 studies, and probably slightly increases the risk of a caesarean section (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.32; 3178 women; 7 studies; both moderate-quality evidence) when compared to oral misoprostol. It is uncertain whether there is a difference in uterine hyperstimulation with FHR changes (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.38; 2033 women; 2 studies), serious neonatal morbidity or perinatal death (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.06; 2627 women; 3 studies), both low-quality evidence, serious maternal morbidity or death (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.05 to 5.52; 2627 women; 3 studies), very low-quality evidence, five-minute Apgar scores < 7 (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.32; 2693 women; 4 studies) and NICU admissions (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.17; 2873 women; 5 studies) both low-quality evidence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Low- to moderate-quality evidence shows mechanical induction with a balloon is probably as effective as induction of labour with vaginal PGE2. However, a balloon seems to have a more favourable safety profile. More research on this comparison does not seem warranted. Moderate-quality evidence shows a balloon catheter may be slightly less effective as oral misoprostol, but it remains unclear if there is a difference in safety outcomes for the neonate. When compared to low-dose vaginal misoprostol, low-quality evidence shows a balloon may be less effective, but probably has a better safety profile. Future research could be focused more on safety aspects for the neonate and maternal satisfaction.

Propess versus prostin for induction of labour in term primiparous women

BACKGROUND

The rate of induction of labour has increased over the decades and numerous medications are available in the market. This study compares the efficacy and safety between dinoprostone slow-release pessary (Propess) and dinoprostone tablet (Prostin) for labour induction at term in nulliparous women.

METHODS

This was a prospective single-blind randomized controlled trial conducted in a tertiary medical centre in Taiwan from September 1, 2020 to February 28, 2021. We recruited nulliparous women at term with a singleton pregnancy, fetus in cephalic presentation, an unfavourable cervix, and the cervical length had been measured by transvaginal sonography three times during labour induction. The main outcomes are duration from induction of labour to vaginal delivery, vaginal delivery rate, maternal and neonatal complication rates.

RESULTS

In both groups, Prostin and Propess, 30 pregnant women were enrolled. The Propess group had higher vaginal delivery rate but it did not meet statistically significant difference. The Prostin group had significantly higher rate of adding oxytocin for augmentation (p = 0.0002). No significant difference was observed in either labouring course, maternal or neonatal outcomes. The probability of vaginal delivery was independently related to the cervical length measured by transvaginal sonography 8 h after Prostin or Propess administration as well as neonatal birth weight.

CONCLUSION

Both Prostin and Propess can be used as cervical ripening agents with similar efficacy and without significant morbidity. Propess administration was associated with higher vaginal delivery rate and less need to add oxytocin. Intrapartum measurement of cervical length is helpful in predicting successful vaginal delivery.

Longitudinal Ultrasound Evaluation of Dilapan-S During Cervical Ripening

OBJECTIVE

To assess the diameter change of hygroscopic rod dilation during 12 hours of cervical ripening.

METHODS

This was an observational, prospective study of term women undergoing labor induction with a bishop score ≤ 6. Women were allocated into two groups (soaked gauze or no gauze) stratified by parity. Using transvaginal ultrasound, maximal rod diameters were obtained in a longitudinal plane. Measurements were taken at four pre-specified time points (3, 6, 8, and 12 hours). All rods were removed at 12 hours from insertion. Patient satisfaction scores between the groups were assessed. To evaluate if measures were significantly different among the four time points, a generalized linear model was used. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean rod diameter values and pain measures between the two groups. Fisher Exact tests were used to evaluate categorical satisfaction measures.

RESULTS

Forty-four women were recruited with a total of 178 hygroscopic rods placed. Mean rod diameters (mm) were significantly different among the four time periods (3 hour: 7.9 mm [SD 0.9]; 6 hour: 9.4 mm [SD 0.9]; 8 hour: 10.0 mm [SD 0.9]; 12 hour: 10.9 mm [SD 0.8]; P-value <.001). After stratifying by the use of gauze, there was no difference in rod diameters at 3, 6, 8, and 12 hours respectively. There was no difference in patient satisfaction scores between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The majority of hygroscopic rod dilation occurs within the first 8 hours of cervical ripening. Placement of saturated gauze does not accelerate rod dilation.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes following induction of labor for fetal growth restriction: Extra-amniotic balloon versus prostaglandins

OBJECTIVE

To compare perinatal outcomes in pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (FGR) undergoing induction of labor by extra-amniotic balloon (EAB) versus prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂ ).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of women with singleton pregnancies and FGR, undergoing induction at term via EAB, PGE₂ , or both, at a single medical center (2014-2017). Primary outcome was rate of cesarean deliveries (CDs). Secondary outcomes included composite maternal and neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall, 266 women met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 131 (49.2%) underwent induction by PGE₂ , 116 (43.6%) by EAB, and 19 (7.14%) by both methods. No differences were noted in baseline characteristics. Rate of CD (17.24% vs. 6.11% vs. 10.53%, P = 0.022) and maternal composite outcome (18.97% vs. 6.11% vs. 10.53%, P < 0.01) were higher among women who underwent induction by EAB compared with PGE₂ or both. No difference was noted between groups in neonatal outcomes. In a multivariable logistic regression, rates of cesarean delivery and composite maternal outcome were no longer higher in the EAB group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68-4.16, P = 0.260; and aOR 1.94, 95% CI 0.84-4.45, P = 0.120, respectively).

CONCLUSION

EAB and PGE₂ have comparable maternal and neonatal outcomes when used for induction of labor due to FGR.

Intracervical Foley catheter plus intravaginal misoprostol compared to intravaginal misoprostol-only for cervical ripening: A systematic review and meta-analysis

To compare the combination of intracervical Foley catheter and intravaginal misoprostol administration versus intravaginal misoprostol administration-only for cervical ripening. The Medline, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, PROSPERO, Scopus, and Cochrane Collaboration databases were searched systematically. Randomized controlled trials that included patients with a singleton viable fetus who underwent induction of labor that required cervical ripening with an unfavorable cervix (Bishop ≤ 6) were eligible for inclusion. Primary outcomes was time to delivery and rate of cesarean delivery. Thirteen trials with 2978 subjects met the inclusion criteria. There was no difference in the incidence of cesarean delivery between the two groups (RR, 0.90; 95 % CI, 0.72-1.14; I² = 69 %). The combination group resulted in comparable time to delivery (MD -2.50 h; 95 % CI 0.38, -5.38; I² = 97 %), shorter time to vaginal delivery (MD -3.49 h; 95 % CI -4.89, -2.09; I² = 81 %), lower risk of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (RR 0.72, 95 % CI 0.58-0.90, I² = 0 %), meconium-stained fluid (RR 0.48, 95 % CI 0.31-0.73, I² = 28 %), and tachysystole with fetal heart trace changes (RR 0.49, 95 % CI 0.27-0.86, I² = 43 %), compared with intravaginal misoprostol-only group. There was no statistical difference in rates of terbutaline use, endometritis or chorioamnionitis between the two groups. The combination of intravaginal misoprostol with intracervical Foley catheter for cervical ripening is not associated with shorter time to delivery. However, the combination group shows significant difference in shorter time to vaginal delivery, NICU admission, meconium-stained fluid, and tachysystole with fetal heart trace changes.

Comparison of the effect of oral and vaginal misoprostol on labor induction: updating a systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies

OBJECTIVES

This study is aimed to compare the effect of oral misoprostol with vaginal misoprostol to induce labor as a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Electronic databases including PubMed [Medline], Scopus, Web of science, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using the relevant keywords. All RCTs comparing the effect of oral vs vaginal misoprostol on labor induction were considered. The Cochrane Risk of Bias checklist was used for assessing quality of included RCTs. All statistical analyses were completed using STATA (Version 16) and Revman (Version 5).

RESULTS

Thirty-three RCTs with 5162 patients (1560 in oral and 2602 in vaginal groups) were included in this meta-analysis. Labor induction length did differ significantly between the two routes of misoprostol administration [Standardized Mean Difference: 0.40 h, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34, 0.46; I²: 66.35%; P = 0.04]. In addition, the risk of neonatal death, tachysystole, uterine hyperstimulation, preeclampsia, non-FHR and abortion was lower in the oral misoprostol group and the risk of hypertonus, PROM, oxytocin need and cesarean fever was higher in this group than the vaginal misoprostol group.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on results of this meta-analysis, it can be inferred that currently, clinical specialists can decide to use this drug orally or vaginally on a case-by-case basis, depending on the condition of the pregnant mother and the baby.

Maternal and perinatal outcomes of failed prostaglandin induction of labour: A retrospective cohort study

Background

Induction of labor is performed in up to 25% of pregnant women. When the cervix is unfavorable, cervical ripening may be safely and effectively performed using slow-release vaginal inserts of prostaglandin E2. However, the risk factors, management, and outcome of patients who fail to respond remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the outcomes of women who fail to respond to cervical ripening with prostaglandins.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis (2013-2019) was conducted. Women with a singleton gestation who underwent induction of labor due to post-date pregnancy using a slow-release prostaglandin E2 vaginal insert for cervical ripening were included. Data on clinical and outcome factors were derived from the medical files, and findings were compared between patients who achieved ripening within 24 h of treatment onset and those who did not. The primary outcome measure was the vaginal delivery rate following the ripening process. Secondary outcome measures were adverse composite maternal and neonatal outcomes. A model combining maternal characteristics and response rates to ripening was constructed.

Results

The final cohort included 1285 women: 1202 responded to cervical ripening (93.54%) and 83 (6.46%) did not. Compared to non-responders, responders had higher rates of vaginal delivery (96.51% vs. 66.27%, P < 0.001); lower rates of adverse maternal composite outcome (12.81% vs. 24.10%, P = 0.031) and adverse neonatal composite respiratory outcome (1.33% vs. 6.02%, P = 0.009). Responders were younger than non-responders (mean 30.03 years vs 31.73 years, P = 0.005) and had a lower nulliparity rate (50.99% vs 76.92%, P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, failure to achieve cervical ripening was an independent risk factor for intrapartum cesarean delivery due to prolonged labor (aOR 11.90, 95% CI 6.13-23.25).

Conclusion

Women who achieve cervical ripening with prostaglandin E2 vaginal inserts are younger and more often multiparous than women who fail to respond. Good response to the cervical ripening process is associated with lower rates of intrapartum cesarean delivery and of adverse outcomes.

Intra-cervical Foley Balloon Catheter Versus Prostaglandins for the Induction of Labour: A Literature Review

Labour induction involves helping a woman to start her labour, before labour begins on its own, for a vaginal birth with the aid of artificial methods, such as medications or other medical techniques. Labour induction is done in cases where extending the pregnancy can threaten the mother or her baby's health, and delivery should result in better outcomes than continuing the pregnancy. Currently, nearly 25% of babies are born by labour induction in economically developed countries. It is often necessary in certain situations to induce labour by using ripening techniques that not only soften the cervix but also make it thin and dilated. Mechanical or pharmacological approaches are used for the artificial induction of labour. Because research articles evaluating the safety and efficacy of various ripening techniques of the cervix vary in terms of their findings, it remains uncertain as to which is the best way to induce labour. In light of this, to find out the most popular interventions for ripening of the cervix during labour induction, we performed a review of the literature that compares the use of a Foley catheter and prostaglandins (misoprostol and dinoprostone). Our findings show that using misoprostol orally is much better than using it vaginally. Foley catheter proved to be the least effective induction technique, despite the fact that it offers the lowest risk.

Labor Induction with Intravaginal Misoprostol versus Spontaneous Labor: Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes

Purpose. To compare the maternal and neonatal outcomes of pregnant women who had labor induction with intravaginal misoprostol or had spontaneous labor in our clinic. Material-Method. The records of 213 pregnant women, who were followed up in Acibadem Maslak University Hospital for vaginal delivery between June 2021 and December 2021, were retrospectively evaluated. The pregnant women, who gave birth, were divided into 3 groups as follows: spontaneous labor (SL), those induced by a single dose of misoprostol (SDM), and those induced by multiple doses of misoprostol (MDM). The groups were compared in terms of delivery type, the vaginal birth rate within 12 hours, need for intervention, duration of the second stage of labor, cesarean section ratio due to fetal distress, time from the last dose to delivery, and 1st and 5th minute APGAR scores. Results. Among the primiparous pregnant women, 84.7% of SL group, 65.2% of SDM group, and 37% MDM group delivered vaginally within 12 hours ( $p<0.05$ ). The time from the last misoprostol dose to delivery was also statistically significantly shorter in pregnant women, who received a single dose of misoprostol (483 vs. 720 min, respectively). When the hospitalization time was evaluated, in the SDM group, the MDM group, and the SL group, it was found to be 611, 831, and 379 min, respectively. In multiparous pregnant women, the hospitalization time was 735 min in the SDM group, 494 min in the MDM group, and 261.5 min in the SL group ( $p<0.05$ ). Other than the hospitalization time, when the aforementioned variables were studied in multiparous pregnant women, no statistically significant difference among groups was observed ( $p>0.05$ ). Conclusion. Intravaginal misoprostol seems to be a promising medical agent for labor induction due to its high delivery rates within 12 hours and the absence of negative fetal outcomes, its ease of storage, and affordable cost.

Cervical ripening as an outpatient procedure in the pandemic - minimizing the inpatient days and lowering the socioeconomic costs

OBJECTIVES

With an increasing incidence of labor induction the socioeconomic costs are increasing and the burden on hospital capacities is rising. In addition, the worldwide SARS-CoV-2 pandemic asks for improvements in patient care during pregnancy and delivery while decreasing the patient-staff contact. Here, we are retrospectively analyzing and comparing a mechanical ripening device that is utilized as an outpatient procedure to misoprostol and dinoprostone as inpatient induction methods in a low risk cohort.

METHODS

This is a retrospective comparative analysis of obstetric data on patients who presented for cervical ripening and labor induction. Ninety-six patients received a mechanical ripening agent as an outpatient procedure. As a control group, we used 99 patients with oral misoprostol (PGE1) and 42 patients with vaginal dinoprostone (PGE2) for cervical ripening in an inpatient setting. Data from 2016 until 2020 were analysed.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics showed no significant differences. Delivery modes were similar in all groups. The time period from patient admission to onset of labor was significantly shorter in the outpatient group (p<0.001): 10.9 h/0.5 days (±13.6/0.6) for osmotic dilator vs. 17.9 h/0.7 days (±13.1/0.5) for oral misoprostol vs. 21.8 h/0.8 days (±15.9/0.7) for vaginal dinoprostone. With 20.4 h/0.8 days (±14.3/0.6) the osmotic dilator group displayed significantly the shortest inpatient stay from admission to delivery (p=0.027). The patient subgroup of misoprostol had 25.7 h/1.1 days (±14.9/0.6) of inpatient stay from admission to delivery and the patient group of dinoprostone 27.5 h/1.1 days (±16.0/0.7). There were fewer hospital days in the outpatient group: 84.9 h/3.5 days vs. 88.9 h/3.7 days vs. 93.6 h/3.9 days (outpatient osmotic dilator vs. inpatient misoprostol and dinoprostone, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

New approaches are required to decrease individual contacts between patients and staff while maintaining a high quality patient care in obstetrics. This analysis reveals that outpatient mechanical cervical ripening can be as safe and effective as inpatient cervical ripening with PGE1/PGE2, while lowering patient-staff contact and total hospital stays and therefore decreasing the socioeconomic costs.

Balloon catheters versus vaginal prostaglandins for labour induction (CPI Collaborative): an individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Induction of labour is one of the most common obstetric interventions globally. Balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins are widely used to ripen the cervix in labour induction. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety profiles of these two induction methods.

METHODS

We did an individual participant data meta-analysis comparing balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins for cervical ripening before labour induction. We systematically identified published and unpublished randomised controlled trials that completed data collection between March 19, 2019, and May 1, 2021, by searching the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and PubMed. Further trials done before March 19, 2019, were identified through a recent Cochrane review. Data relating to the combined use of the two methods were not included, only data from women with a viable, singleton pregnancy were analysed, and no exclusion was made based on parity or membrane status. We contacted authors of individuals trials and participant-level data were harmonised and recoded according to predefined definitions of variables. Risk of bias was assessed with the ROB2 tool. The primary outcomes were caesarean delivery, indication for caesarean delivery, a composite adverse perinatal outcome, and a composite adverse maternal outcome. We followed the intention-to-treat principle for the main analysis. The primary meta-analysis used two-stage random-effects models and the sensitivity analysis used one-stage mixed models. All models were adjusted for maternal age and parity. This meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020179924).

FINDINGS

Individual participant data were available from 12 studies with a total of 5460 participants. Balloon catheters, compared with vaginal prostaglandins, did not lead to a significantly different rate of caesarean delivery (12 trials, 5414 women; crude incidence 27·0%; adjusted OR [aOR] 1·09, 95% CI 0·95-1·24; I²=0%), caesarean delivery for failure to progress (11 trials, 4601 women; aOR 1·20, 95% CI 0·91-1·58; I²=39%), or caesarean delivery for fetal distress (10 trials, 4441 women; aOR 0·86, 95% CI 0·71-1·04; I²=0%). The composite adverse perinatal outcome was lower in women who were allocated to balloon catheters than in those allocated to vaginal prostaglandins (ten trials, 4452 neonates, crude incidence 13·6%; aOR 0·80, 95% CI 0·70-0·92; I²=0%). There was no significant difference in the composite adverse maternal outcome (ten trials, 4326 women, crude incidence 22·7%; aOR 1·02, 95% CI 0·89-1·18; I²=0%).

INTERPRETATION

In induction of labour, balloon catheters and vaginal prostaglandins have comparable caesarean delivery rates and maternal safety profiles, but balloon catheters lead to fewer adverse perinatal events.

FUNDING

Australian National Health and Medical Research Council and Monash Health Emerging Researcher Fellowship.

The association between induction of labour in nulliparous women at term and subsequent spontaneous preterm birth: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the rate of subsequent spontaneous preterm birth in patients with previous induction of labour at term compared to women with previous spontaneous labour at term.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of all women with consecutive births at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital between 2014 and 2018. All nulliparous women with a singleton pregnancy and induction of labour at term or in spontaneous labour at term in the index pregnancy were included. Data was extracted from electronic medical records. The outcome of spontaneous preterm birth in the subsequent pregnancy was compared between patients with previous term induction of labour and in previous term spontaneous labour.

RESULTS

A total of 907 patients with consecutive births met the inclusion criteria; of which 269 (29.7%) had a term induction of labour and 638 (70.3%) had a term spontaneous labour in the index pregnancy. The overall subsequent spontaneous preterm birth rate was 2.3%. Nulliparous women who underwent term induction of labour were less likely to have a subsequent preterm birth compared to nulliparous women in term spontaneous labour (0.74 vs. 2.98%; odds ratio [OR], 0.25; 95% confidence interval, 0.06-1.07; p=0.0496) in the index pregnancy. This however was not significant once adjusted for confounders (adjusted OR, 0.29; p=0.10). Spontaneous preterm birth was associated with a previous spontaneous labour compared to induction of labour between 37 to 37⁺⁶ and 38 to 38⁺⁶ weeks (adjusted OR 0.18 and 0.21; p=0.02 and 0.004 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Term induction of labour does not increase the risk of subsequent spontaneous preterm birth compared to spontaneous labour at term in nulliparous women. Further research is needed to validate these findings in a larger cohort of women and to evaluate the effect of elective IOL among low-risk nulliparous women.

Safety and efficacy of double-balloon catheter for cervical ripening: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Various methods are used for cervical ripening during the induction of labor. Mechanical and pharmacological methods are commonly used for cervical ripening. A double-balloon catheter was specifically developed to ripen the cervix and induce labor; however, the efficacy of the double-balloon catheter in cervical ripening compared to other methods is unknown.

METHODS

We searched five databases and performed a Bayesian network meta-analysis. Six interventions (double-balloon catheter, Foley catheter, oral misoprostol, vaginal misoprostol, dinoprostone, and double-balloon catheter combined with oral misoprostol) were included in the search. The primary outcomes were cesarean delivery rate and time from intervention-to-birth. The secondary outcomes were as follows: Bishop score increment; achieving a vaginal delivery within 24 h; uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes; need for oxytocin augmentation; instrumental delivery; meconium staining; chorioamnionitis; postpartum hemorrhage; low Apgar score; neonatal intensive care unit admission; and arterial pH.

RESULTS

Forty-eight randomized controlled trials involving 11,482 pregnant women were identified. The cesarean delivery rates of the cervical ripening with a double-balloon catheter and oral misoprostol, oral misoprostol, and vaginal misoprostol were significantly lower than cervical ripening with a Foley catheter (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.23-0.96; OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58-0.93; and OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.64-0.97, respectively; all P < 0.05). The time from intervention-to-birth of vaginal misoprostol was significantly shorter than the other five cervical ripening methods. Vaginal misoprostol and oral misoprostol increased the risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes compared to a Foley catheter. A double-balloon catheter with or without oral misoprostol had similar outcomes, including uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes compared to a Foley catheter.

CONCLUSION

Double-balloon catheter did not show superiority when compared with other single method in primary and secondary outcomes of labor induction. The combination of double-balloon catheter with oral misoprostol was significantly reduced the rate of cesarean section compared to Foley catheter without increased risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes, which was shown in oral or vaginal misoprostol.

A novel method for assessing the condition of the cervix before labor induction: Cervical length/thickness ratio

Background/Aim: Due to the increasing cesarean rates globally, new methods for supporting vaginal delivery and induction of successful vaginal delivery are still being developed. We aimed to obtain an easy-to-use method that can predict the effectiveness of cervical ripening agents before labor induction. So, we presented the effects on labor by measuring the thickness of the cervix and the cervical length/thickness ratio ultrasonographically. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated 183 pregnant between 37 and 41 weeks of gestational age and will apply vaginal delivery induction. Before oxytocin induction, we applied 10 mg dinoprostone vaginally to women whose cervix was stiff. We started labor induction with oxytocin when regular uterine contractions or dilatation occurred. We used the Bishop Scoring System for favorable cervix defining. Then, we compared the groups with successful and unsuccessful cervical ripening regarding cervical length and thickness parameters. Results: The mean cervical thickness of the pregnant women with successful cervical ripening was 34.5 (7.5) mm before treatment, while the mean values of the unsuccessful group were 29.2 (9.1) mm (P < 0.001). The cervical length did not differ between the two groups (31.6 [8.2] vs. 32.5 [6.8], P = 0.44), while the cervical length/thickness ratio was lower in the group with successful ripening (0.9 [0.38–2], P < 0.001). Cervical length/thickness ratio was the highest predictor of the favorable cervix with dinoprostone. Each 1 unit decrease in the length/thickness ratio of the cervix increases the preparation of the cervix for induction by 0.25 times (P = 0.04). A successful response to dinoprostone can be obtained if the cervical length/thickness ratio is <1.06 mm (P < 0.001). Conclusion: In conclusion, assessing the cervix’s condition before labor induction by measuring the cervical length/thickness ratio may be a good predictor of cervical ripening activity.

Labor induction with combined low-dose oral misoprostol and Foley catheter vs oral misoprostol alone at term gestation—a randomized study

BACKGROUND

The ideal method for induction of labor is still not clearly defined. Recent reports in literature have shown that oral administration of low-dose misoprostol is as effective as vaginal administration for induction of labor. The use of vaginal misoprostol in combination with Foley catheter has been shown to shorten the period of induction. However, there are limited reports on the use of oral misoprostol in combination with Foley catheter. Given the convenience of oral administration, improved compliance relative to other methods is probable. This study proposed that the combination of oral misoprostol and Foley catheter would be a better means of inducing labor.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of combined low-dose oral misoprostol and Foley catheter with oral misoprostol alone for induction of labor at term gestation. The efficacy was compared in terms of the induction-to-delivery interval and the number of women delivering vaginally within 24 hours. The second objective was to document adverse events, if any, of the 2 protocols.

STUDY DESIGN

The study was conducted at a tertiary care center and included 200 patients with indication for induction, randomly allotted to either of the 2 groups: group A (a combination of Foley catheter and 25-µg misoprostol every 2 hours orally) and group B (only 25-µg misoprostol every 2 hours orally), using computer-generated random number sequence. The obstetrical and neonatal outcomes were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. Quantitative variables were compared using unpaired and paired t-tests within the groups across follow-ups.

RESULTS

Group A had significantly shorter mean induction-to-active-labor interval (10.67±1.75 vs 16.28±1.69 hours), mean induction-to-full-dilation interval (11.49 vs 19.00 hours), and mean induction-to-delivery interval (16.85 vs 21.90 hours). The proportion of women delivering vaginally within 24 hours was higher in group A (76 vs 57 women). In comparing maternal side effects, the only significant difference between the 2 groups was found in postpartum hemorrhage. A 5-minute Apgar score <7 was significantly more frequent in group B.

CONCLUSION

The combination of oral misoprostol with transcervical Foley catheter reduced the induction-to-delivery interval significantly (P=.001). In addition, the proportion of women delivering vaginally within 24 hours was significantly higher. Hence, the use of oral misoprostol with Foley catheter for induction of labor would be beneficial for patients.

Traction vs no traction in Foley catheter use for induction of labor: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

OBJECTIVE

Intracervical Foley catheter is a safe and effective method for cervical ripening. There are a variety of ways to modify this ripening method, including adding traction or tension to the catheter. The utility of this practice is uncertain. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was to investigate whether the placement of traction vs no traction on a Foley catheter during cervical ripening decreases total time from induction to delivery.

DATA SOURCES

Electronic sources include MEDLINE, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews, SciELO, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar from inception through June 2020.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomized trials comparing Foley catheter with traction (ie, intervention) vs Foley catheter without traction (ie, control) for cervical ripening were included in the meta-analysis. All types of traction were analyzed (weighted, taped to thigh) and whether the traction was placed only initially at Foley catheter placement or repeated throughout the ripening process.

METHODS

The primary outcome was the mean time from induction to delivery in hours. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model of DerSimonian and Laird to produce summary treatment effects in terms of mean difference with 95% confidence interval. Heterogeneity was measured using I-squared (Higgins I²).

RESULTS

Three trials including 790 singleton gestations were identified as relevant and included in the systematic review. Women randomized to traction on the Foley balloon had a similar time from induction to delivery compared with no traction (mean difference, 0.25; confidence interval, -0.78 to 1.27). No significant differences were found in the secondary outcomes. There was no difference in cesarean delivery between groups (relative risk, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.74-1.19). Foley catheter expulsion was faster in the tension group (mean difference, -3.74; 95% confidence interval, -6.29 to -1.19) CONCLUSION: Adding traction to an intracervical Foley catheter during cervical ripening does not decrease time to delivery.

Offering women a choice in induction of labour: a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To evaluate women's choice in the method of labour induction between oral misoprostol, PGE2 pessary and the Foley catheter. To compare women's satisfaction according to their choice and to identify factors associated with patient satisfaction.

METHODS

We conducted a comparative, prospective cohort study of 520 women who chose their preferred method for labour induction, in a French tertiary hospital, from July 2019 to October 2020. Before and after the delivery, they were asked to argue their choice and to evaluate their satisfaction through the use of questionnaires. The primary outcome was global level of satisfaction.

RESULTS

Of the 520 women included, 67.5% of women chose oral misoprostol compared to 21% PGE2 pessary and 11.5% Foley catheter. Regarding global satisfaction, we found no significant difference between the three groups: 78.4%, 68.8% and 71.2% (p = 0.107) for, respectively, oral misoprostol, PGE2 pessary and Foley catheter. Factors that seem to improve women's satisfaction were nulliparity (aOR = 2.03, 95% CI [1.19-3.53]), delivery within 24 h after the start of induction (aOR = 3.46, 95% CI [2.02-6.14]) and adequate information (aOR = 4.21, 95% CI [1.869.64]). Factors associated with lower satisfaction rates were postpartum haemorrhage (aOR = 0.51, 95% CI [0.30-0.88]) and caesarean section (aOR = 0.31, 95% CI [0.17-0.54]).

CONCLUSION

Women satisfaction rates were not different between the three methods, when chosen by the patients themselves. These finding should encourage caregivers to promote shared decision making when possible.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The protocol was approved by the French ethics committee for research in obstetrics and gynaecology (CEROG, reference number 2019-OBS-0602) on 1st June 2019.

[Induction of labour with oral misoprostol versus vaginal misoprostol: A before-after study]

OBJECTIVE

The rate of induction of labor represented 22 % of deliveries in 2016 in France. Oral misoprostol (Angusta®) was marketed in France in the last quarter of 2018. The objective of our study was to compare the efficacy and safety of induction of labor with oral misoprostol compared to vaginal misoprostol in women with an unripe cervix.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We carried out a retrospective study before and after the implementation of oral misoprostol including all women with an unripe cervix who benefited from an induction of labor with a viable infant in vertex presentation, without uterine scar. During the first two-year period, women received 50μg of misoprostol in the posterior fornix, repeated 6hours later if needed. If labor had not started after 24hours, women received another dose of 50μg, which was repeated every 4hours until labor was established, up to a total dose of 150μg. During the second two-year period, women received two tablets of oral misoprostol 25μg every four hours if necessary, up to a total dose of 200μg. The primary endpoints were mode of delivery and neonatal safety.

RESULTS

During the two study periods, 1199 women received vaginal misoprostol and 1199 women received oral misoprostol including. The cesarean delivery rate was 21.8% during the first period and 21,3% during the second period (P=0.83). A 5-minutes Apgar score<7 was observed in 23 (1.9%) and 14 (1.2%) newborns in the vaginal misoprostol and oral misoprostol groups (P=0.14), respectively. An arterial cord pH<7.00 was observed in 6 (0.5%) and 7 (0.6%) newborns (P=0.99), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Oral misoprostol administered at the dose of 50μg every 4hours (up to a total dose of 200μg) is as effective and safe as the vaginal misoprostol to induce labor in women with an unripe cervix.

A snapshot of women’s and clinicians’ perceptions of the double balloon catheter for induction of labor

INTRODUCTION

Induction of labor (IOL) is rising globally and is growing steadily in the state of New South Wales, Australia. There are numerous methods of induction of labor, including the double balloon catheter (DBC). There is minimal evidence on women’s attitudes and experiences and clinician’s opinions on the use of the DBC. This study aims to explore the views regarding DBC insertion and effectiveness from women induced with a DBC and clinicians involved in the catheter insertion and care.

METHODS

This study is a descriptive survey of two prospective, de-identified, self-reported questionnaires which were completed in 2016. One questionnaire was administered to term pregnant women that were admitted to the antenatal ward post IOL, and the other was completed by midwives and obstetric doctors working in the ward at the time.

RESULTS

The DBC appeared to be a well-accepted method of cervical ripening among women (61%) and clinicians (>82%). Success of DBC to achieve an artificial rupture of membrane post removal, directly correlates to women’s acceptance (61%). While most clinicians (59–67%) perceived insertion of DBC in an outpatient setting and then women discharged home was appropriate, only 13% of women were in favor. On the logistics of the procedure in respect to insertion and removal of the DBC, there were differences of opinion, with only 43% of women, 77% of midwives and 33% of doctors stating that the timing of insertion and removal needed to be improved.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the need to undertake qualitative research to further explore women’s views and perceptions on IOL in order to ensure that clinical practice is woman-centered and evidenced-based, and to guide policy and protocol.

[Efficacy and safety of oral misoprostol 25μg vs. vaginal dinoprostone in induction of labor at term]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of oral misoprostol 25μg compared to vaginal dinoprostone in the induction of labor at term.

METHODS

Analytic, retrospective study of patients induced at term by prostaglandins with an unfavorable cervix, over two consecutive periods from 01/01/2019 to 19/02/2020 and from 20/02/2020 to 07/04/2021, within a regional level III university hospital center. We compared the safety and the efficacy between the oral misoprostol Angusta® used since 20/02/2020 and the vaginal dinoprostone previously used in gel or diffuser. The primary endpoint was the rate of vaginal deliveries within 24h. Secondary endpoints were cesarean section rate, indications for cesarean section, uterine contractility abnormalities and neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

Our study found no difference in terms of efficacy with similar rates of vaginal deliveries within 24h (51.88% vs. 51.25%; P=0.87) and caesarean sections (misoprostol group: 19.42% vs. dinoprostone group: 16.62%; P=0.33). However, the tolerance criteria revealed in the dinoprostone group an increase in tachysystole (misoprostol group: 9.28% vs. dinoprostone group: 16.90%; P=0.003) and acidosis (arterial pH<7.10, misoprostol group: 3.83% vs. dinoprostone group: 9.29%; P=0.006).

CONCLUSION

No difference in efficacy was found between the two induction techniques. Oral misoprostol 25μg seems to be better tolerated from a maternal and fetal point of view.

Foley catheter and controlled release dinoprostone versus foley catheter labor induction in nulliparas: a randomized trial

PURPOSE

To evaluate Foley catheter and controlled release dinoprostone insert compared to foley catheter alone on induction to delivery interval and maternal satisfaction.

METHODS

A randomized trial was conducted in a university hospital in Malaysia from December 2018 to May 2019. Term nulliparas with unfavorable cervix (Bishop score ≤ 5) scheduled for labor induction were randomized to Foley catheter and controlled release dinoprostone insert simultaneously or Foley catheter alone. Primary outcomes were induction to delivery interval (hours) and maternal satisfaction on birth experience (assessed by 11-point Visual Numerical Rating Scale VNRS 0-10, higher score more satisfied).

RESULTS

Induction to vaginal delivery intervals was mean ± standard deviation 22.5 ± 10.4 vs. 35.1 ± 14.9 h, P =  < 0.001 but maternal satisfaction on birth experience was not significantly different median[interquartile range] VNRS 8[7-9] vs. 8[7-9], P = 0.12 for Foley catheter-controlled-release dinoprostone and Foley catheter alone arms, respectively. Cesarean delivery rates were 35/102(34.3%) vs. 50/101(49.5%), P = 0.02 RR 0.7 95% CI 0.5-0.9 NNTb 6.3 95% CI 3.5-39.4, pain score at 6 h after catheter insertion 5[2-8] vs. 1[1-3], P < 0.001, Bishop score at trial devices removal 9[9-10] vs. 8[7-9], P = 0.001, requirement for oxytocin induction or augmentation 39/102(38.2%) vs. 76/101(75.2%) NNTb 3 95% CI 2.0-4.1, P < 0.001 and amniotomy rates 73/99(73.7%) vs. 81/95(85.3%), P = 0.052 RR 0.9 85% CI 0.8-1.0 in Foley catheter-controlled-release dinoprostone and Foley catheter alone arms respectively.

CONCLUSION

In nulliparas with unripe cervixes at term, combined Foley catheter and controlled release dinoprostone vaginal insert compared to Foley catheter alone reduces the induction to vaginal delivery interval and cesarean delivery rate but satisfaction was not significantly increased.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN2282883, 03/12/2018, "prospectively registered" ( https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12282883 ).

Prostaglandins for induction in pregnancies with fetal growth restriction

BACKGROUND

The data on safety of prostaglandin agents for induction of pregnancies with fetal growth restriction is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the rates of adverse outcomes among pregnancies with fetal growth restriction undergoing induction of labor with and without prostaglandins STUDY DESIGN: We performed a propensity-score-based secondary analysis of the Consortium on Safe Labor database. We included term, singleton, and nonanomalous pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (estimated fetal weight <10th percentile for gestational age). We excluded previous cesarean deliveries. The primary exposure was induction using prostaglandins (prostaglandin E₁ or prostaglandin E₂) compared with other methods. The primary outcome was a composite of adverse neonatal outcomes. The secondary outcomes included all cesarean deliveries and cesarean deliveries for nonreassuring fetal heart tracings. A subgroup analysis comparing the type of prostaglandin was planned a priori. The results are expressed as adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Of 756 (0.3%) inductions, 212 (28%) used prostaglandins (108 prostaglandin E₁, 94 prostaglandin E₂), and 553 (72%) used nonprostaglandin methods, including oxytocin (348, 63%), amniotomy (211, 38%), and/or mechanical dilation (9, 1%). There were no differences in the composite of adverse neonatal outcomes between the prostaglandin (10.4%) and the nonprostaglandin group (6.7%), adjusted odds ratio, 1.39 (0.64-3.03). The rate of cesarean delivery was higher in the inductions that received prostaglandins than those that did not (25.5% vs 14.8%, adjusted odds ratio, 1.80; 1.07-3.02). The rate of cesarean delivery for nonreassuring fetal heart tracings was higher for those that received prostaglandins than those that did not (16.0% vs 8.7%, adjusted odds ratio, 2.37; 1.28-4.41). When prostaglandin E₁ and prostaglandin E₂ were examined independently, there were similar increases in the composite of adverse neonatal outcomes and cesarean delivery rates for both prostaglandin E₁ and prostaglandin E₂ compared with nonprostaglandin controls.

CONCLUSION

There were no differences in the composite of adverse neonatal outcomes when prostaglandins were used for induction in pregnancies with fetal growth restriction compared with other methods. However, there was a higher rate of cesarean delivery and cesarean delivery indicated for nonreassuring fetal heart tracings when prostaglandins (both prostaglandin E₁ and prostaglandin E₂) were used, compared with nonprostaglandin methods.

Induction of labor at term with vaginal misoprostol or a prostaglandin E2 pessary: a noninferiority randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Induction of labor is among the most common procedures for pregnant women. Only a few randomized clinical trials with relatively small samples have compared misoprostol with dinoprostone. Although their efficacy seems similar, their safety profiles have not been adequately evaluated, and economic data are sparse.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to test the noninferiority of vaginal misoprostol (prostaglandin E1) (25 μg) to a slow-release dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2) pessary (10 μg) for induction of labor with an unfavorable cervix at term.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an open-label multicenter randomized noninferiority trial at 4 university hospitals of the Research Group in Obstetrics and Gynecology between 2012 and 2015. We recruited women who underwent induction of labor for medical reasons, those with a Bishop score of ≤5 at ≥36 weeks' gestation, and those with a cephalic-presenting singleton pregnancy with no previous cesarean delivery. Women were randomly allocated to receive either vaginal misoprostol at 4-hour intervals (25 μg) or a 10-mg slow-release dinoprostone pessary. The primary outcome was the total cesarean delivery rate. Noninferiority was defined as a difference in the cesarean delivery rates between the groups of no more than 5%. Secondary outcomes included neonatal and maternal morbidity, vaginal delivery at <24 hours after starting the induction of labor process, and maternal satisfaction.

RESULTS

The study included 1674 randomized women. The per-protocol analysis included 790 women in each group. The total cesarean delivery rates were 22.1% (n=175) in the misoprostol group and 19.9% (n=157) in the dinoprostone group, a difference of 2.2% (with an upper-bound 95% confidence limit of 5.6%) (P=.092). Results in the intention-to-treat analysis were similar. Neonatal and maternal morbidity rates were similar between groups. Vaginal delivery within 24 hours was significantly higher in the misoprostol group (59.3% vs 45.7%; P<.001) as was maternal satisfaction, assessed in the postpartum period by a visual analog scale (mean score, 7.1±2.4 vs 5.8±3.1; P<.001).

CONCLUSION

The noninferiority of a 25-μg dose of vaginal misoprostol every 4 hours to the dinoprostone pessary for cesarean delivery rates after induction of labor at term could not be demonstrated, although the confidence limit of the difference barely exceeded the noninferiority margin. Nonetheless, given the small difference between these cesarean delivery rates and the similarity of neonatal and maternal morbidity rates in this large study, the clinical risk-to-benefit ratio justifies the use of both drugs.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of vaginal misoprostol versus dinoprostone pessary: A non-inferiority large randomized controlled trial in France

OBJECTIVE

To assess the cost-effectiveness of vaginal misoprostol (PGE1; 25 μg) compared with a slow-release dinoprostone (PGE2) pessary (10 μg) for labor induction due to an unfavorable cervix at term.

METHODS

We used data from an open-label multicenter, randomized non-inferiority trial that recruited women for whom labor was induced for medical reasons. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was assessed from the payer's perspective, with the focus on inpatient care costs and using the cesarean deliveries avoided (CDA) rate as the primary analysis and the rate of vaginal delivery within 24 h (VD24) as the secondary analysis.

RESULTS

Analyses were based on 790 women in each group. Differences between treatment arms were the mean cost per patient of €4410 and €4399, a CDA rate of 80.1% and 77.9% and a VD24 rate of 46.1% and 59.4% for dinoprostone and misoprostol, respectively. Dinoprostone is not cost-effective according to the CDA rate and misoprostol was either a cost-effective or a dominant strategy according to the VD24.

CONCLUSION

Misoprostol and dinoprostone have equal cost management with mixed efficacy according to the clinical outcome used. Finally, misoprostol may be an attractive option for hospitals as the price is lower and it is easier to use.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01765881. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01765881. ClinicalTrialRegistrer.eu: 2011-000933-35. URL: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2011-000933-35/FR.