Mechanical method of induction of labor in high-risk pregnant women with previous cesarean section - Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia

Artigos Originais

Mechanical method of induction of labor in high-risk pregnant women with previous cesarean section

PURPOSE:

To describe the maternal and fetal outcomes with the use of the Foley catheter for induction of labor in high-risk pregnant women with previous caesarean section.

METHODS:

An interventive and descriptive study was conducted from November 2013 to June 2014. A total of 39 pregnant women at term, with a live fetus, cephalic presentation, estimated fetal weight <4,000 g, with previous cesarean section, medical indications for induction of labor, Bishop score ≤6 and amniotic fluid index >5 cm were included. A number 16F Foley catheter was introduced for a maximum of 24 hours, and was considered to be satisfactory when the patient began labor within 24 hours.

RESULTS:

Labor was successfully induced in 79.5% of pregnant women. Nine women achieved vaginal delivery (23.1%), with a frequency of 18% of vaginal births occurring within 24 hours. The main indications for the induction of labor were hypertensive disorders (75%). The mean interval between the placement of the Foley catheter and the beginning of labor and delivery were 8.7±7.1 and 14.7±9.8 hours, respectively. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid was observed in two patients; and an Apgar score <7 in the first minute was detected in 5 newborns (12.8%).

CONCLUSIONS:

The Foley catheter is an alternative for the induction of labor in women with previous caesarean section, despite the low vaginal delivery rate.

Comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Leia também