Obstetrical policy during labor and perinatal results: a comparison between two university clinics

The obstetrical policy during labor at two University clinics in Nottingham (United Kingdom) and Nijmegen (The Netherlands) was investigated prospectively and simultaneously during a period of three months (1984). At the University of Nijmegen the obstetrical population tended to be more 'pathologic', and less intervention during labor was observed for early amniotomy, pain relief, induction and augmentation of labor. The pH in umbilical arterial blood was as a mean 0.01 unit lower in Nijmegen than in Nottingham. The validity of electronic fetal monitoring appeared to be higher in Nijmegen. It is concluded that data on the neonate probably cannot give an answer in favor of one of these policies. Parenthood information could give more conclusive evidence.