[Evaluation of controlled-release dinoprostone Propess for labor induction]

To evaluate the efficacy of cervix ripening with vaginal controlled-release Propess.

A retrospective study of all women who underwent cervical ripening with Propess during the study period from 1(st) January 2002 to 31(st) December 2004 was carried out. A total of 130 patients who experienced Propess was compared with the next following patient who delivered spontaneously matched on gestational age. Modes of delivery, failure of labor, maternal morbidity were recorded.

Indications for induction of labor were: post-term pregnancies in 18.5%, pre-eclampsia in 20.8%, oligohydroamnios in 18.5%, post-term pregnancy and oligohydramnios in 10.8%, intra-uterine fetal growth in 6.9%, premature rupture of membranes in 6.9%, diminution of fetal mobility in 6.1% and miscellaneous in 11.5%. Failure of cervical ripening was 21.2%. Patients in the Propess group had a 3.5 fold higher risk of Cesarean section [95% CI: 1.5-8.3; P < 0.04]. There was no case of maternal or fetal death. There was no difference in incidence of maternal complications, and post-partum haemorrhage.

Use of vaginal pessary Propess does not induce adverse maternal or fetal morbidity. However, it was associated with a higher incidence of Cesarean delivery.