Cervical Bishop Research Articles

Nomogram Predictive Model for Vaginal Birth after One Prior Cesarean Section: A Retrospective Study

Background: Repeat cesareans pose significant maternal risks, whereas vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) offers better outcomes, with a complication rate of 2.4% compared with 3.6% for elective repeat cesareans and 14.1% for failed trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). TOLAC rates are low in China, and success rates vary between 60% and 80%. This study aims to develop a nomogram-based predictive model for VBAC in China and improve existing, less rigorous scoring models. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Hangzhou Women's Hospital from February 2015 to March 2020, and included 159 parturient attempts at labor after one prior low transverse cesarean section. The participants were divided into two groups based on their mode of delivery for comparison: the VBAC and the TOLAC failure group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent predictors for VBAC and develop a nomogram predictive model to estimate the success rate of TOLAC. The bootstrap method was used for internal validation of the models. Three different VBAC prediction models were evaluated by plotting receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curves. Results: A total of 127 women had VBAC and 32 women failed TOLAC, with a success rate of 79.9%. Three independent factors affecting the VBAC were identified: gestational age at delivery, Bishop score and newborn birth weight. A predictive nomogram model for the VBAC was constructed that incorporates these three factors. The model showed a good fit (χ2 = 11.94, p = 0.154) with an overall prediction accuracy of 81.1%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.83 (95% CI (confidence interval), 0.76–0.90) (p < 0.001) and the optimal cut-off value was 83.4%. The bootstrap internal validation showed that our predictive model maintained high overall accuracy and specificity, but exhibited low sensitivity and a low Kappa coefficient. Compared to the Grobman model and Jiaming Rao et al. model, our developed prediction model possesses the strongest discriminatory ability and the highest net benefit, followed by the model by Jiaming Rao et al. All three models demonstrate a high degree of fit. Conclusions: Shorter gestational age at delivery, lower newborn birth weight and higher cervical Bishop score are favorable factors for VBAC. The predictive nomogram model for the VBAC after a single cesarean section, constructed with these three factors, has good predictive efficacy. The model is simple to calculate and has practical value in the clinical selection of suitable candidates for TOLAC after a single cesarean section.

Determinants of Higher Oxytocin Dose Need During Labor Induction

Background: Several guidelines have been published regarding intrapartum oxytocin infusion for labor induction or augmentation; however, many of them lack specificity. Objectives: Therefore, this study aimed to assess the oxytocin dose administered during labor and evaluate its association with maternal characteristics and short-term perinatal outcomes. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 162 term pregnant women who were admitted to the labor ward for vaginal delivery in two academic hospitals during 2021 - 2022. Maternal demographic features, obstetric and medical history data, labor process details (initial Bishop score, membrane status on admission and at the time of labor induction or augmentation, latent and active phase duration, oxytocin dose, delivery mode, and neonatal outcomes) were obtained and recorded. Participants were divided into two main groups based on the intrapartum oxytocin dose, and the desired outcomes were reported and compared between the groups. Results: The median maternal age was 28 years (range: 16 - 46). The median oxytocin dose administered during labor induction was 10 mU/min (range: 2.5 - 25 mU/min). Oxytocin dose was significantly correlated with gestational age (P < 0.001), cervical dilation and effacement (P < 0.001), fetal head station (P < 0.001), cervical consistency (P < 0.001), and cervical Bishop score before labor induction (P < 0.001). The cervical dilation at the time of membrane rupture was also positively correlated with the intrapartum oxytocin dose (P = 0.013). Higher gestational age was correlated with a higher required oxytocin dose (P < 0.001). The cesarean rate was 22.8% in the study population, and it was positively correlated with intrapartum oxytocin dose (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The cervical Bishop score and its components, except for cervical position, were correlated with the intrapartum oxytocin dose. In other words, the less favorable the cervix, the higher the likelihood of requiring higher doses of oxytocin and consequently experiencing a longer duration of labor. Additionally, the cesarean rate was higher in those who needed oxytocin doses of more than 10 mU/min; however, short - term neonatal outcomes were not different.

Effect of cervical Bishop score on induction of labor at term in primiparas using Foley catheter balloon: a retrospective study

BackgroundPrevious studies had found that the mechanical methods were as effective as pharmacological methods in achieving vaginal delivery. However, whether balloon catheter induction is suitable for women with severe cervical immaturity and whether it will increase the related risks still need to be further explored.Research aimTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of Foley catheter balloon for labor induction at term in primiparas with different cervical scores.MethodsA total of 688 primiparas who received cervical ripening with a Foley catheter balloon were recruited in this study. They were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (Bishop score ≤ 3) and Group 2 (3 < Bishop score < 7). Detailed medical data before and after using of balloon were faithfully recorded.ResultsThe cervical Bishop scores of the two groups after catheter placement were all significantly higher than those before (Group 1: 5.49 ± 1.31 VS 2.83 ± 0.39, P<0.05; Group 2: 6.09 ± 1.00 VS 4.45 ± 0.59, P<0.05). The success rate of labor induction in group 2 was higher than that in group 1 (P<0.05). The incidence of intrauterine infection in Group 1 was higher than that in Group 2 (18.3% VS 11.3%, P<0.05).ConclusionThe success rates of induction of labor by Foley catheter balloon were different in primiparas with different cervical conditions, the failure rate of induction of labor and the incidence of intrauterine infection were higher in primiparas with severe cervical immaturity.

External validation and updating of the Rossi nomogram for predicting cesarean delivery following induction: is the Bishop score valuable?

This study sought to validate the Rossi nomogram in a Chinese population and then to include the Bishop score to see if it has an effect on the accuracy of the nomogram. The Rossi predictive model was applied and externally validated in a retrospective cohort from August 2017 and July 2023 in a Chinese tertiary-level medical center. For the revision and updating of the models, the regression coefficients of all the predictors (except race) were re-estimated and then the cervical Bishop score at the time of induction was added. Each model's performance was measured using the receiver-operating characteristic and calibration plots. Decision curve analysis determined the range of the probability threshold for each prediction model that would be of clinical value. A total of 721 women met the inclusion criteria, of whom 183 (25.4%) underwent a cesarean delivery. The calibration demonstrated the underestimation of the original model, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.789 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.753-0.825, p < 0.001). After recalibrating the original model, the discriminative performance was improved from 0.789 to 0.803. Moreover, the discriminatory power of the updated model was further improved when the Bishop score at the time of induction was added to the recalibrated multivariable model. Indeed, the updated model demonstrated good calibration and discriminatory power, with an AUC of 0.811. The decision curve analysis indicated that all the models (original, recalibrated, and updated) provided higher net benefits of between 0 and 60% of the probability threshold, which indicates the benefits of using the models to make decisions concerning patients who fall within the identified range of the probability threshold. The net benefits of the updated model were higher than those of the original model and the recalibrated model. The nomogram used to predict cesarean delivery following induction developed by Rossi et al. has been validated in a Chinese population in this study. More specifically, adaptation to a Chinese population by excluding ethnicity and including the Bishop score prior to induction gave rise to better performance. The three models (original, recalibrated, and updated) offer higher net benefits when the probability threshold is between 0 and 60%.

Clinical analysis of 102 cases of labor induction in the third trimester on twin pregnancy

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics of induced labor in twin pregnancy and the related factors of induced labor failure. Methods: The clinical data of twin pregnant women who underwent induced labor in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2016 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. According to whether they had labor or not after induction, pregnant women were divided into the success group (pregnant women who had labor after induction, 72 cases) and the failure group (pregnant women who did not have labor after induction, 30 cases). Logistic regression was used to analyze the related factors of induction failure in twin pregnant women. Results: The parity and cervical Bishop score in the failure group were significantly lower than those in the success group, while the proportion of dichorionic diamniotic twins, assisted reproductive technology pregnancy and cervical Bishop score <6, postpartum hospital stay and total hospital stay in the failure group were significantly higher than those in the success group (all P<0.05). The proportion of induced labor by artificial rupture of membranes ± oxytocin intravenous infusion in the success group was 72.2% (52/72), which was significantly higher than that in the failure group (46.7%, 14/30; P=0.030). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the gestational age at delivery, the incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage and blood transfusion, the amount of postpartum hemorrhage, the neonatal weight of two fetuses, the incidence of neonatal asphyxia, and the proportion of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (all P>0.05). There were no severe perineal laceration and hysterectomy in all pregnant women. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that primipara (OR=3.064, 95%CI: 1.112-8.443; P=0.030) and cervical Bishop score <6 (OR=5.208, 95%CI: 2.008-13.508; P=0.001) were the independent risk factors for induction failure in twin pregnancy. Conclusions: Elective induction of labor in twin pregnancy is safe and feasible. It is helpful to improve the success rate of induction of labor by strictly grasping the timing and indications of termination of pregnancy, choosing the appropriate method of induction according to the condition of the cervix, and actively promoting cervical ripening.

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

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

Influence factor analysis and prediction model of successful application of high-volume Foley Catheter for labor induction

BackgroundThis study aimed to establish a clinical-based nomogram for predicting the success rate of high-volume Foley catheterization for labor induction.MethodsThis retrospective study included 1149 full-term pregnant women who received high-volume Foley catheterization for labor induction from January 2019 to December 2021 in Changshu No.1 People’s Hospital. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed, in which the labor induction success was set as dependent variables and the characteristics (including age, height, weight, BMI, gravidity, parity, gestational age, uterine height, abdominal circumference, cervical Bishop score, amniotic fluid index, cephalic presentation, neonatal weight, pregnancy complications, etc.) were set as independent variables. A nomogram scoring model was established based on these risk factors, and a calibration curve was plotted to verify the predictive accuracy of the model.ResultsThe success rate of labor induction was 83.55% (960/1149). Univariate analysis revealed that the risk factors associated with the success rate of high-volume Foley catheterization for labor induction were height, pregnancy, birth, age, weight, BMI, uterine height, abdominal circumference, and hypertension. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR = 0.950; 95% CI: 0.904 ~ 0.998), height (OR = 1.062; 95% CI: 1.026 ~ 1.100), BMI (OR = 0.871; 95% CI: 0.831 ~ 0.913), and parity (OR = 8.007; 95% CI: 4.483 ~ 14.303) were independent risk factors for labor induction success by high-volume Foley catheterization. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve in the prediction model was 0.752 (95% CI 0.716 ~ 0.788). A nomogram was constructed based on the final multivariate analysis with a corrected C-index of 0.748, which indicated that the model was calibrated reasonably.ConclusionFour risk factors were used to construct a nomogram to evaluate the success rate of high-volume Foley catheterization for labor induction. The nomogram provides a visual clinical tool to assist in the selection of the most appropriate mode of labor induction for pregnant women of different risk levels.

The Effect of Using Dexamethasone Tablets Vaginally for Improving Cervical Bishop Score in Nulliparous Pregnant Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Cervix ripening and labor induction are common interventions in obstetrics. For optimal maternal health, labor may be induced under certain situations to improve fetal survival outcomes. Labor induction of an unripe cervix can lead to complications; therefore, several approaches can facilitate the ripening process. This randomized clinical trial was a triple-blind study that involved 84 pregnant nulliparous women enrolled between October 2019 and June 2021 in the labor ward of Kamali Hospital, Karaj, Iran. The pregnant women in the study underwent labor induction and were randomized into 2 groups: 1 group received vaginal dexamethasone and the other group was given a placebo. There was no significant difference between the groups regarding maternal age, demographic characteristics, and initial Bishop score. The median second Bishop score (6 hours after intervention) was 3.5 in dexamethasone recipients and 3 in placebo recipients (P = 0.48). The median labor latent phase duration was 4 hours in dexamethasone recipients and 5 hours in placebo recipients (P = 0.57). This randomized clinical trial demonstrated that administering dexamethasone tablets vaginally did not significantly improve cervical Bishop scores. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2023; 84:XXX-XXX). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05070468.

Effects of Misoprostol and Evening Primrose Extracts on Cervix Preparation for Labor Induction in Term Pregnancies

Background: Ripening is the process of preparing the cervix for induction of labor and is crucial to identify a low-complication, low-cost, and safe method of inducing labor before spontaneous labor begins. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the impact of the evening primrose capsule on inducing labor, as well as to compare its effect to that of misoprostol. Methods: This prospective clinical trial study was performed on 200 low-risk pregnant women candidate for delivery in an academic hospital in Tehran from 2018 to 2020. Patients were randomly divided into two groups to receive 25 µg misoprostol vaginally or 500 mg evening primrose vaginal capsule to induce labor and repeated every three hours until reaching the bishop score &gt; 4 in case of no effective up to three doses. The total drug dose, as well as maternal and neonatal outcomes evaluated and compared between groups. Results: Although misoprostol was significantly more effective than evening primrose in increasing cervical bishop score in the inactive phase of labor, the active phase and delivery time were not different between the groups. Also, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the cesarean section rate. Maternal complications, including uterine hyperstimulation, headache, or gastrointestinal complications in the group receiving misoprostol were significantly higher in misoprostol group, but fetal complications, including Apgar score, pH, hospitalization, and meconium excretion, were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions: Evening primrose capsules are safe and can be used to induce labor because of the lower risk of hyperstimulation of the uterus and the higher tolerance. There should be more research done to see if this medicine can be used alone or in conjunction with misoprostol or mechanical dilators or if it can be administered at home rather than in the hospital.

Analysis of high risk factors for complications in the trial of vaginal delivery due to uterine scarring in a subsequent pregnancy to a cesarean section.

The purpose of this work was to analyze the high-risk factors of com-plications in the trial of vaginal delivery of a subsequent pregnancy for scar uterus after a previous cesarean. 136 pregnant women with scar uterus with a history of cesarean who were admitted to our obstetrics department from February 2016 to March 2019 were selected and were divided into a successful group and a failed group according to the results of pregnancy and trial of labor vaginal delivery. Gen-eral data of before, during, and after delivery were collected and the high-risk fac-tors for failed vaginal delivery of scar uterine were analyzed by the logistic regression analysis.Among the 136 patients, 108 cases (79.41%) of vaginal trials were success-ful, and 28 cases (20.59%) of vaginal trials faired.The univariate analysis showed that the differences in gravidity, parity and the previous cesarean interval, vaginal birth history, prenatal BMI, uterine contraction, gestational age, infant weight, dila-tation of the cervix, cervical Bishop score, the height of the fetal head, the thickness of the lower uterus, and whether the membranes were prematurely ruptured were statistically significant (P&lt;0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed vaginal birth history, prenatal BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, parity ≥ 2 times, cesarean interval &lt;2 times, dilatation of cervix ≥ 1 cm, the height of the fetal head ≥ -3, premature rupture of the membrane and the thickness of the lower uterus of 3.0 to 3.9 cm were the high-risk factors of complications in the vaginal trial delivery of pregnancy again for scar uterus (P&lt;0.05). It is feasible for pregnant women with scar uterus to undergo vaginal delivery, but many related factors can affect the failure of trial of labor. It is necessary to pay attention to all aspects of clinical examination and choose applica-tions strictly according to the indications.

Comparative study Of TVS cervical score and Bishop score in prediction of successful labour induction

BackgroundIn today's obstetric practice, induction of labour is a common procedure. Before the imaging era, the favourability of the cervix was assessed by manual examination scored as the Bishop Score. However, subjectivity and high inter- and intra-observer variability are limitations of this approach. This necessitates the implementation of an objective method of assessment. We used transvaginal sonography (TVS) as an objective method of assessment of cervix by TVS cervical score comprising of five different parameters; cervical length, funnelling at the internal os, distance from the presenting part to the external os, and cervix position. This study aims to evaluate the role of the pre-induction transvaginal ultrasonographic (TVS) cervical score in predicting labour outcome and comparing it to the Bishop score in patients undergoing induction of labour.MethodologyThis observational prospective study included 100 pregnant women admitted for labour induction at a single tertiary care centre. The TVS examination which consisted of five parameters was performed after the clinical Bishop scoring. The TVS scores were compared with the Bishop scores for all patients. Labour induction was done within one hour of examination and the outcome of the induction was recorded.ResultsThe mean age was 25.87 years [SD = 4.35]. Labour induction was successful in 74% of patients. At cut-off Scores of ≥ 4, TVS cervical Score performed better than Bishop Score (Sensitivity 93.24 vs. 67.57%, Specificity 73.08 vs. 65.38%). ROC analysis indicated that Area Under Curve (AUC) was more for TVS Score (0.91, 95% CI 0.84–0.97), compared to Bishop Score.ConclusionTransvaginal ultrasonography is an objective method of cervical assessment. We conclude from our study that the use of TVS score which consists of five different parameters in cervical assessment provides a better prediction of successful labour induction than the Bishop score, and so can prevent various complications associated with induction failure.

Efficacy and Safety Analysis of Phloroglucinol in Combination with Oxytocin for the Induction of Labor in Women with Term Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM).

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of phloroglucinol in combination with oxytocin in the induction of labor in women who had experienced term premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Methods Data from 100 women who experienced PROM between December 2020 and December 2021 were retrospectively evaluated in this study. The puerperae were categorized into observation and control groups based on their uterine contraction regimens. The observation group consisted of 53 participants that had been treated with phloroglucinol in combination with oxytocin, and the control group consisted of 47 participants that had been treated with oxytocin alone. It was observed and compared in terms of the Bishop score before and after the administration of the puerpera to see which group had the best index. A study was performed after the drug was administered to examine its effects on the duration of labor (including the first, second, and third stages of labor), the mode of delivery (including natural vaginal delivery and cesarean section), the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes (fetal distress and neonatal asphyxia), successful labor induction, and complication rates. Results Patients in the observation group had a significantly higher Bishop score after administration than those in the control group (P < 0.05), although there was no difference between the two groups before administration. In comparison to the control group, the observation group had a significantly higher efficacy rate for drug administration (P < 0.05), as well as a significantly lower occurrence of the first stage of labor (P < 0.05), a higher rate of vaginal natural delivery and successful induction of labor (P < 0.05), and a significantly lower incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes and complications (P < 0.05). Conclusion In conclusion, the use of phloroglucinol in combination with intravenous oxytocin in the process of promoting cervical ripening and induction of labor for women with PROM who are at term was investigated. This study could help women speed up cervical dilation, improve the cervical Bishop scores, shorten the total labour process, improve the effective rate of vaginal delivery, and be very safe, making it a good candidate for clinical promotion and application.

Birthing ball on promoting cervical ripening and its influence on the labor process and the neonatal blood gas index.

BACKGROUNDTerm pregnancy-induced labor refers to the use of artificial methods to induce uterine contractions and terminate pregnancy after 37 wk. It is a common method to prevent overdue pregnancy and to deal with high-risk pregnancies. In addition, it can alleviate maternal complications and cause the fetus to leave the adverse intrauterine environment early, which is beneficial to the outcome of pregnancy.AIMTo explore the effect of a birthing ball on labor by inducing cervical ripening and its influence on labor and the neonatal blood gas index.METHODSTwenty-two women who were scheduled to undergo labor induction and delivery in the obstetrics department of our hospital were randomly divided into two groups: the delivery ball group (childbirth ball combined with COOK balloon induction) and the conventional group (COOK balloon induction alone). The cervical Bishop score before and after intervention, duration of labor at each stage, mode of delivery, neonatal umbilical venous blood pH, oxygen partial pressure (PO2), carbon dioxide partial pressure (PCO2), and the 1-min Apgar score were recorded.RESULTSAfter the intervention, the cervical Bishop score of the delivery ball group (7.84 ± 1.52) was significantly higher than that of the conventional group (7.32 ± 1.29) (P < 0.05), and the cervical Bishop scores of the two groups after intervention were significantly higher than those before intervention (P < 0.05). After the intervention, the first stage of labor (510.9 ± 98.7 min), the second stage of labor (43.0 ± 8.5 min), and the total duration of labor (560.0 ± 120.9 min) in the delivery ball group were lower than those in the routine group, with a first stage of labor of 602.1 ± 133.2 min, a second stage of labor of 48.4 ± 9.1 min, and a total duration of labor of 656.8 ± 148.5 min (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the time of the third stage of labor between the two groups (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the pH, PO2, and PCO2 values of newborns between the delivery ball group and the conventional group (P > 0.05). The 1-min Apgar score of the delivery ball group was higher than that of the conventional group (9.10 ± 0.38 points vs 8.94 ± 0.31 points, P < 0.05). The natural delivery rate of the delivery ball group was higher than that of the conventional group (91.00% vs 78.00%, P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONThe use of a birthing ball combined with a COOK balloon for inducing labor has a better effect on promoting cervical ripening, shortening the time of labor, and improving the Apgar score of newborns.

Effective evaluation of labor induction by modifier double balloon Foley catheter at 108 Military Central Hospital

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of labor induction by modifier double balloon Foley catheter (MDB) in pregnant women with the indication of vaginal delivery. Subject and method: Longitudinal prospective study on 82 pregnant women at Obtetricts Department of 108 Military Central Hospital from June 2020 to September 2021 with criteria: Pregnancy age was older than or equal to 37 weeks, singleton, vertex presentation, their cervical Bishop score &lt; 6, cervix is unfavorable to detach the amnio membranes, intact membranes, to designate termination of pregnancy by vaginal delivery and consent to participate in the study. Labor induction was conducted by double balloon Foley modifier catheter. Result: With success criteria is defined as Bishop score after labor induction larger or equal 7, the success rate with MDB was 86.6%, the increase of Bishop scores averaged 5.63 points with p&lt;0.001. 7.32% tiny fever was connected to Foley catheters. The cesarean section rate after induction was 14.6%. The vaginal birth rate after the succession of labor induction using combined MDBs was 88.7%. There was not any complication for the women and the newborn babies. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that MDB using labor induction was feasible and high effective procedure as well as without compromising maternal or fetal safety.

Efficacy of Vaginal and Oral Progesterone After Tocolytic Therapy in Threatened Preterm Labor: A 3-Arm Parallel- Group Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Progesterone has established roles in preventing preterm labor in women with history of spontaneous preterm labor and short cervix, but there is little evidence to support its use to prevent preterm delivery in women with threatened preterm labor. Objective: To evaluate clinical efficacy of oral and vaginal progesterone on prevention of preterm delivery before 34 and 37 weeks in threatened preterm labor. Materials and Methods: The present study was a 3-arm randomized control trial, 231 singleton pregnancies of 28- to 33-weeks-6-days who had threatened preterm labor were recruited and randomized to three groups,1) 200 mg/day vaginal micronized progesterone, 2) 30 mg/day oral dydrogesterone and 3) control group with no progesterone. All groups received identical standard treatment for threatened preterm labor. Comparison of primary outcomes, which is the preterm delivery before 34 and 37 weeks, across groups were performed using chi-square test. Secondary outcomes, which are latency period, cervical change, maternal morbidity, neonatal morbidity, and mortality, were also compared. Results: Proportion of preterm delivery before 34 weeks was not significantly different across the three treatment groups at 16.0%, 12.0%, and 5.2% in control, oral progesterone, and vaginal progesterone groups, respectively (p=0.098). Concerning pairwise comparison, vaginal progesterone was more efficacious in preventing preterm delivery before 34 weeks than the control group (p=0.030), while oral progesterone was similarly effective to the control group (p=0.638). Proportion of preterm delivery before 37 weeks was not significantly different across the three treatment groups at 41.3%, 45.3%, and 31.2% in control, oral, and vaginal progesterone groups, respectively (p=0.182). Latency period differed across three treatment groups with a median latency of 36.5, 42.0, and 43.0 days in control, oral, and vaginal progesterone groups, respectively (p=0.041). Changes in cervical length and Bishop scores were not different across treatment groups. Conclusion: Vaginal progesterone could prevent preterm delivery before 34 weeks and prolong latency period in women with threatened preterm labor. Keywords: Preterm labor, Progesterone efficacy, Threatened preterm labor, After tocolysis

Analysis of the factors affecting the duration of the latent period from the moment of prelabor rupture of membranes to the onset of labor

Introduction. Premature rupture of membranes during full-term pregnancy represents an increased risk of septic complications for both the mother and the fetus due to the prolongation of the latency period, the period from the discharge of amniotic fluid till the onset of labor.&#x0D; Purpose of the study: to assess the factors affecting the duration of the latent period (from the moment of discharge of amniotic fluid to the development of labor) during full-term pregnancy.&#x0D; Materials and methods. A prospective analysis of the labor of 136 patients with premature rupture of membranes and full-term pregnancy (37-42 weeks) of low and moderate risk groups, without contraindications for vaginal birth was carried out. Patients with Bishops cervical score less than or equal to 7 points made up the main group (70 pregnant women). Patients with mature cervix were included in the comparison group (66 cases). The analysis of the duration of the latent period was carried out with the use of correlation and regression analysis.&#x0D; Results. The time from the moment of discharge of amniotic fluid to the onset of regular labor in the group with a cervix 7 Bishop points was 7.82 4.53 hours, while in the group with a cervix 8 Bishop points it was 4.4 3.23 hours (T = 5.02; p 0.001). The most significant effect on the duration of the latency period was the assessment of the cervix according to Bishop scale (r = 0.48; p 0.001), the gestational age was in the second place (r = 0.23; p = 0.08). In patients who didnt take mifepristone, the main factors influencing the duration of the latency interval were fetal weight (r = 0.31; p = 0.004) and gestational age (r = 0.29; p = 0.008); the increase in these parameters led to the decrease in the latency interval. Women who received 200 mg mifepristone in labour had a significant positive correlation with maternal age (r = 0.36; p = 0.04), negative with maternal weight (r = 0.42; p = 0.01) and cervical Bishop score (r = 0.48; p = 0.004). Women in labor with the longest latency interval, who received mifepristone in a daily dosage of 400 mg, have an inverse correlation for the gestational age (r = 0.39; p = 0.09), connection with the degree of cervical maturity, age, constitutional features, gestational age was not revealed.&#x0D; Conclusion. The main predictors of the duration of the latency period of premature rupture of membranes at full-term pregnancy were the degree of cervical maturity according to Bishop scale, gestational age and fetal weight at birth.

Effect of single-chamber balloon combined with dinoprostone suppository on cervical ripening induced by full-term maternal delivery

Objective To investigate the effects of single-chamber balloon combined with dinoprostone suppository on the progestation of the cervix in full-term maternal delivery. Methods From January 2017 to December 2018, 120 cases of full-term maternal women admitted to the Central Hospital of Yiwu were selected.According to the random number table method, all women were divided into control group (60 cases) and observation group (60 cases). The control group was given a single-cavity balloon to promote cervical ripening.The observation group received single-chamber balloon combined with dinoprostone to promote cervical ripening.The effects of maternal cervical ripening were observed. Results The total effective rate of maternal cervical ripening in the observation group (95.00%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (81.67%), and the difference was statistically significant (χ2=6.135, P 0.05). The total maternal labor [(5.8±2.1)h] in the observation group was significantly shorter than that in the control group [(7.6±2.5)h], the difference was statistically significant (t=3.126, P 0.05). After the balloon and balloon combination were taken out, the Bishop score of the maternal cervix[(8.6±1.5)points] in the observation group was higher than that in the control group [(7.2±1.3)points], and the difference was statistically significant (t=4.354, P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reaction of the observation group (6.67%) was lower than that of the control group (13.33%), the difference was statistically significant between the groups(χ2=3.821, P<0.05). Conclusion Compared with simple single-chamber balloon, single-chamber balloon combined with dinoprostone suppository has more significant effect on the maternal ripening of the cervix, it can improve the vaginal delivery rate and maternal cervical Bishop scores, effectively reduce the maternal total labor, and reduce the incidence of maternal adverse reactions. Key words: Pregnancy trimester, third; Cervical ripening; Pregnancy outcome; Single-lumen balloon; Double balloon; Dinoprostone suppository

Effect of epidural analgesia in trial of labor after cesarean on maternal and neonatal outcomes in China: a multicenter, prospective cohort study

BackgroundThe trial of labor after cesarean section (TOLAC) is a relatively new technique in mainland of China, and epidural analgesia is one of the risk factors for uterine rupture. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of epidural analgesia on primary labor outcome [success rate of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)], parturient complications and neonatal outcomes after TOLAC in Chinese multiparas based on a strictly uniform TOLAC indication, management and epidural protocol.MethodsA total of 423 multiparas undergoing TOLAC were enrolled in this study from January 2017 to February 2018. Multiparas were divided into two groups according to whether they received epidural analgesia (study group, N = 263) or not (control group, N = 160) during labor. Maternal delivery outcomes and neonatal characteristics were recorded and evaluated using univariate analysis, multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching (PSM).ResultsThe success rate of VBAC was remarkably higher (85.55% vs. 69.38%, p < 0.01) in study group. Epidural analgesia significantly shortened initiating lactation period and declined Visual Analogue Score (VAS). It also showed more superiority in neonatal umbilical arterial blood pH value. After matching by PSM, multivariable logistic regression revealed that the correction of confounding factors including epidural analgesia, cervical Bishop score at admission and spontaneous onset of labor were still shown as promotion probability in study group (OR = 4.480, 1.360, and 10.188, respectively; 95%CI = 2.025–10.660, 1.113–1.673, and 2.875–48.418, respectively; p < 0.001, p = 0.003, and p < 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsEpidural analgesia could reduce labor pain, and no increased risk of postpartum bleeding or uterine rupture, as well as adverse effects in newborns were observed. The labor duration of multiparas was increased, but within acceptable range. In summary, epidural analgesia may be safe for both mother and neonate in the three studied hospitals.Trial registrationChineses Clinical Trial Register, ChiCTR-ONC-17010654. Registered February 16th, 2017.

Transvaginal sonographic measurement of cervical length versus Bishop score in labor induction at term for prediction of caesarean delivery

Objective The current study aims to compare between a transvaginal sonographic measurement of cervical length and Bishop score in the induction of labor (IOL) at term for prediction of cesarean delivery (CD). Materials and methods A prospective cohort study included 320 full-term pregnant women attending Ain Shams Maternity Hospital in the period from August 2017 to February 2018 were enrolled. Seventy-three women were delivered by CD (positive group), and 247 women were delivered vaginally (negative group). All patients had a vaginal examination for assessing the Bishop Score before IOL then a transvaginal ultrasound for assessment of cervical length. IOL was initiated by using PGE1 analog. The primary outcome measure was the accuracy of the cervical length or the bishop score for prediction of the CD. Results In our current study, CD was achieved in 22.8% of all participants while vaginal delivery was achieved in 77.8% after IOL by misoprostol 25 micrograms within 24 h from the beginning of induction. Both the cervical length and Bishop Score had poor predictive value for CD (AUC = 0.694 and 0.623, respectively). Conclusions Both transvaginal sonography for cervical length and Bishop score are useful predictors of the need for CD following labor induction.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate Isosorbide Mononitrate (IMN) Efficiency for Cervical Ripening Prior to Labor Induction in Iranian Pregnant Women.

Our aim was to examine the effect and cost-effectiveness of isosorbide mononitrate (IMN) for outpatient (at home) cervical ripening in Iranian women with term pregnancy. Term pregnant women were randomly selected to receive either 15 mg vaginally administered IMN or placebo. Patients were advised to take the second dose at home 24 h later and return to the hospital for admission after the next 24 h if the onset of spontaneous contraction does not occur. Cervical status, maternal blood pressure, maternal pulse rate, fetal heart rate and various side effects were examined. IMN induced a significant increase in cervical Bishop Score; headache, nausea, and dizziness were seen in 8 of 28 participants of IMN group; although, all had normal vital signs and normal FHR, they had to be hospitalized and receive medication to relieve the unpleasant symptoms. Vaginal administration of 15 mg of IMN induced cervical ripening in term pregnant women. However, the administration of IMN for cervical ripening is not recommended as it produced headache in significant number of Iranian pregnant women.