Induced labor in a university hospital: Methods and outcomes

Abstract

Objective: to identify the indications, practices and outcomes of labor induction, in a University Hospital of Southern Brazil. Method: a cross-sectional study. The target population of this study were 137 women who were hospitalized for labor induction from January to October 2014. Data analysis was performed through simple, exploratory statistical analysis and non-parametric test, adopting a significance level of p≤0.05. Results: most (53%) of the inductions were performed due to post-term pregnancy. As for the methods of induction, the use of Misoprostol of 25mcg administered via the vaginal route was found in 46% of cases and the use of Misoprostol in combination with Oxytocin was found in 28.4% of cases. Misoprostol was more associated with vaginal delivery. Conclusion: Induction, if used correctly, is an important strategy for the reduction of high cesarean rates.