Labor induction with prostaglandin E₁ versus E₂: a comparison of outcomes

To compare the peripartum outcomes when labor is induced with prostaglandins E₁ versus E₂.

The Consortium of Safe Labor database was utilized. Women with non-anomalous singletons >24 weeks gestation undergoing induction were analyzed. The primary endpoint was a composite adverse maternal outcome with a composite adverse neonatal outcome as our secondary outcome.

Of the 228,438 births within the database, 8229 (10.8%) met inclusion criteria with 4703 (55.7%) receiving PGE₁, and 3741 (44.3%), PGE₂. The rate of vaginal delivery was similar between both. Composite adverse maternal outcome, was more likely among the prostaglandin E₁: 7.2% vs. 1.5% (aOR 4.20; 95% CI 3.02-5.85); similar trend observed with composite adverse neonatal outcome rates: 4.6% vs. 1.4% (aOR 1.69; 95% CI 1.14-2.50).

Utilization of prostaglandin E₁, compared to E_2, was associated with an increased likelihood of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.