THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF SUBLINGUAL VS ORAL MISOPROSTOL FOR INDUCTION OF LABOUR IN LOW-RISK PREGNANCIES AT TERM

Objective: Various methods of induction of labor are being used by doctors to achieve vaginal birth. Globally, 25% of births involve induction of labor. Misoprostol has gained attention recently in settings with limited resources due to its affordability, easy administration, and stability at room temperature. The study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of sublingual misoprostol with oral misoprostol for the induction of labor in low-risk pregnancies at term. Method: A randomized controlled, prospective study was carried out in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit III, Jinnah Hospital, Lahore for a period of 3 months.Results: Eighty-four women were divided into two groups and given misoprostol for induction of labor via the sublingual or oral route, respectively. Both groups had comparable side effects and fetal outcomes. Delivery outcomes were similar with slightly lower cesarean section rates and reduced interval of induction-to-delivery in the sublingual group. Conclusion: Sublingual route of misoprostol for the induction of labor acts faster and reduces time from induction to delivery as compared to the oral route, with similar safety.