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Changes in the Bishop score induced by manual nipple stimulation. A cross-over randomized study
A Di Lieto1, L Miranda, P Ardito
1II Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli.
Clinical and Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Nipple stimulation significantly improved Bishop scores in women at term, potentially aiding labor onset. This randomized study suggests a non-invasive method to prepare the cervix for delivery.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Cervical ripening is crucial for initiating labor.
- Nipple stimulation is a non-pharmacological method explored for labor induction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of nipple stimulation on Bishop score changes.
- To assess the impact of nipple stimulation on the onset of labor in term primigravidas.
Main Methods:
- A cross-over, randomized study design.
- Involved 60 term primigravidas not yet in labor.
- Nipple stimulation protocol: 45 minutes, three times daily for three days.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant improvements in Bishop scores were observed in the nipple stimulation group compared to controls.
- A higher frequency of labor onset was noted in the treated group.
Conclusions:
- Nipple stimulation is an effective method for improving cervical ripeness.
- This technique may increase the likelihood of spontaneous labor onset in term pregnancies.