CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC INDUCTION OF LABOR - A RATIONAL APPROACH

Induction of labour, defined as stimulation of uterine contractions be fore the spontaneous onset of labour, is indicated when the condition of the mother or fetus precludes awaiting the onset of spontaneous lab our. In current medical practice, induction of labour comprises 2 phas es: cervical priming and induction of contractions. Although numerous agents have been used for cervical priming, the current standard of ca re is the use of intracervical or intravaginal prostaglandin E-2. The only drug currently used for induction of contractions is intravenous oxytocin. While many protocols are deemed acceptable, when required, t he use of cervical priming, amniotomy and intravenous oxytocin are adv ocated. Utilising this approach, rapid delivery can be obtained in the majority of women.