Induction of labour with oxytocin in pregnancy with low-risk heart disease - A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: To compare maternal and perinatal outcome in pregnant women with underlying heart disease who underwent induction of labour with those who had spontaneous labour.
Methodology: A total of 50 pregnant women with heart disease registered in Cardio-Obstetric clinic were recruited consecutively between 38-41 weeks gestation. Patients with favourable Bishop score at 38 weeks were randomized into two groups. Induction of labour with oxytocin was done in one group, and the second group underwent spontaneous onset of labour. Descriptive analysis in terms of mean, standard deviation and the percentage was carried out. Unpaired t-test was applied for comparison of two groups using SPPS statistical software.
Results: No significant difference in the rate of maternal complications was observed between the two groups. No cardiac complications reported in pregnant females who underwent induction of labour. 52% of patients delivered during workday hours when labour was induced while only 24% of pregnant women delivered during working hours who underwent spontaneous delivery. There was no maternal or neonatal death reported.
Conclusion: Induction of labour with oxytocin is a relatively safe procedure in women with heart disease, and it does not result in any cardiac complications. More patients delivered during daytime when electively induced which minimized the maternal and fetal risks, as the team of obstetrical, anesthesiologist, cardiologist and perinatologist are readily available during the daytime.