The studies in this review are limited by sample size which are often divided into multiple comparison groups. Most comparisons showed no significant differences, with wide confidence intervals. Although extra-amniotic prostaglandins may be as effective as other modalities in initiating labour, there is little conclusive information from this review to guide clinical practice. An adequately powered randomised controlled trial would be useful to determine if the use of extra-amniotic prostaglandins would lower the rate of caesarean section.
Does cervical ripening with PGE2 affect subsequent uterine activity in labour?
Uterine activity was measured quantitatively during subsequent labor after prostaglandin E2 gel (PGE2). Thirty primigravidae with a low Bishop score were included in this randomized double-blind study. Fewer women who received PGE2 required subsequent surgical induction. The pattern of uterine activity was different. Cervical dilatation was achieved with less uterine activity in the PGE2 group, especially during the shorter latent phase.