A randomized comparison of oxytocin, sulprostone and placebo in the management of the third stage of labour.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effect on post partum bloodloss of the postpartum prophylactic administration of oxytocin or sulprostone in low risk women having an expectant management of the third stage.


METHODS
Randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial.


METHODS
Radboud University Hospital, Nijmegen (67 women) and Lievensberg Hospital, Bergen op Zoom (10 women).


METHODS
77 women entered the trial (three were excluded).


METHODS
The intramuscular injection, immediately after the birth of the baby, of either oxytocin 5 IU, sulprostone 500 micrograms or 0.9% saline.


METHODS
Quantitative postpartum blood loss and length of third stage.


RESULTS
Postpartum blood loss was reduced almost equally, by about 35%, by oxytocin (P = 0.02), or sulprostone (P = 0.05). The mean length of the third stage was shorter in both groups receiving the active treatment, this effect was significant in the sulprostone group (P = 0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
Prophylactic administration of oxytocin or sulprostone directly after delivery followed by expectant management of the third stage reduces post partum blood loss and shortens the third stage.
Poeschmann
R P
RP
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, State University Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Doesburg
W H
WH
Eskes
T K
TK
D015232:Dinoprostone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007749:Labor Stage, Third; D010121:Oxytocin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006473:Postpartum Hemorrhage / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013997:Time Factors
D010121:Oxytocin; C016767:sulprostone; D015232:Dinoprostone