Rectal misoprostol versus intravenous oxytocin for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage.

Faculty of Medicine

Assiut University

Rectal misoprostol versus intravenous oxytocin for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage.

Research Authors
Nasr A1, Shahin AY, Elsamman AM, Zakherah MS, Shaaban OM.
Research Department
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Research Journal
Int J Gynaecol Obstet.
Research Member
Ahmed Mohamed Ali Ahmed Nasr
Research Publisher
2009 Jun;105(3):244-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2009.01.018. Epub 2009 Feb 26.
Research Rank
1
Research Vol
2009 Jun;105(3):244-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2009.01.018. Epub 2009 Feb 26.
Research Website
PMID: 19249048 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Research Year
2009
Research_Pages
2009 Jun;105(3):244-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2009.01.018.
Research Abstract

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

To assess the effectiveness of 800 microg of rectal misoprostol compared with an intravenous infusion of 5 IU of oxytocin as prophylaxis against postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).
METHODS:

A total of 514 women in labor were randomized into two groups (257 women in each). Within 1 minute of delivery of the anterior shoulder participants in group 1 received 800 microg of rectal misoprostol and 1 ampoule of normal saline in 5 mL lactated Ringer solution intravenously; group 2 received a rectal placebo tablet and 5 IU of oxytocin in 5 mL lactated Ringer solution intravenously.
RESULTS:

Both groups were comparable regarding the need for uterotonics, blood transfusion, and hematocrit drop of 10% or greater, 24 hours post partum (P=0.54, P=0.25, and P=0.85, respectively). Fever was significantly higher among misoprostol patients (18.7% vs 0.8%, P<0.001).
CONCLUSIONS:

Routine use of 800 microg of rectal misoprostol was effective in reducing blood loss after delivery. We recommend the regimen for low-resource, busy obstetric settings.