[Labor induction using extra-amniotic administration of PGE2]

The authors induced 105 deliveries by extraamniotic administration of PGE2 (prostin Upjohn). The initial dose was 1-2 tablets, depending on the maturity of the portio uteri. If the contractions did not start within two hours, the dose was repeated. The sac was disrupted when the contractions were regular and the os uteri was larger than 2 cm. If necessary uterine activity was stimulated by small doses of Oxytocin (in 29%). Indication for induction was a programmed delivery (44.7%), protraced pregnancy (31.5%), diabetes mellitus (10.5%), a period of more than 24 hours after drainage of amniotic fluid without contractions (5.7%), hypertension or renal disease during gestation (4.8%) and hypotrophy of the foetus (2.8%). Inductions were successful in 96.2% of the patients. The parity of the patients influenced the interval between the onset of induction and the onset of uterine contractions, the duration of the first and second stage of labour and the consumption of Prostin tablets. The age of the patient, occupation, obesity and operation on the uterus did not affect the success of induction. There were no serious pathological findings during the third stage of labour, nor serious side-effects. The condition of the neonates was satisfactory.