PROPHYLACTIC USE OF MISOPROSTOL IN MANAGEMENT OF THIRD STAGE OF LABOUR AND PREVENTION OF ATONIC UTERUS

Objective: To assess the prophylactic use of misoprostol in management of third stage of labour and prevention of atonic uterus, and comparing it with conventional i/v syntocinon use in third stage of labour. Methodology: This quasi experimental study was conducted at department of obstetrics and gynecology unit A, Mardan Medical Complex Hospital Mardan, from May 2011 to May 2012. Two hundreds labouring females were included in the study and divided into 2 groups, a control group (100 women who received 5 units syntocinon) and a study group (100 women who received 800ug rectal misoprostol) immediately after delivery of the baby. Duration of third stage of labour, blood loss after delivery were recorded and compared between the two groups. Side effects of both drugs were also noted. Results: There was not any significant difference in blood loss and duration of third stage of labour in both groups. The frequency of atonic PPH (postpartum hemorrhage) in study and control groups was also similar. Conclusion: Misoprostol can be used for the management of third stage of labour and it can reduce atonic PPH. It efficacy and safety is similar to that of syntocinone.