Intravaginal Misoprostol Versus Dinoprostone As Cervical Ripening and Labor-inducing Agents

Objective: To compare dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2) and misoprostol (prostaglandin E1) for ripening the cervix and inducing labor at term.

Methods: Sixty-three women were randomized to receive 100 micrograms misoprostol or 3 mg dinoprostone, both as intravaginal tablets.

Results: There was no statistical difference between the groups for pre-induction status. The mean Bishop scores before drug insertion were almost identical. Twelve hours after insertion, the mean change in the Bishop score was significantly higher in those receiving misoprostol (5.0 versus 3.3) (P = .008). However, there were no significant differences in induction-to-delivery interval, spontaneous labor rates, type of delivery, fetal outcome, or maternal complications.

Conclusion: Misoprostol is as effective as dinoprostone for inducing labor at term.