Originally Posted by Kentish Spitfire  Thanks Josie, I should clarify that this is only for induction of labour, and not for all women.
KS x |
But why use ARM instead of prostin/before prostin has had time to work for these women?
Disadvantages of ARM:
High chance that oxytocin will follow (if progress not adequate within 2 hours, which it rarely is if done as soon as woman is ARMable, rather than when VERY favourable). If oxytocin then drip & CTG tethering (reduced mobility), more pain -> epidural likely, if epidural then further tethering with IV fluids (to avoid hypotension) and BP cuff, even if 'mobile epidural' used.
Risk of infection, and time limits introduced to prevent this.
Risk of cord prolapse if pp not engaged.
If slow progress due to position rather than strength of uterine contractions, then ARM may exacerbate the problem rather than solve it.