Prescribing for labour

Prostaglandins, particularly PGE2 vaginally, can be valuable for cervical ripening or induction of labour in some women. Ease of use must not be allowed to result in unjustified intervention. Amniotomy followed by oxytocin infusion are the methods of choice for induction of labour. Careful monitoring of the maternal and fetal condition are vital, especially if an epidural block is in place. Augmentation of labour is only appropriate for inefficient primigravid labour. Failure to progress in a multiparous woman is more likely to be due to obstruction. Low residue, easily digested foodstuffs are not necessarily contraindicated during normal labour. When properly used, Entonox can provide analgesia equivalent to 75-100 mg pethidine. Sodium citrate is the antacid of choice during labour and should be combined with an H2-receptor blocking agent for caesarean section, or other procedure involving anaesthesia. The routine injection of Syntometrine at delivery of the anterior shoulder to prevent PPH is widespread in the UK but has not been properly tested. Oxytocics are invaluable in the treatment of PPH.