Induction of labour for suspected fetal macrosomia.
BACKGROUND
Suspected macrosomic fetuses are usually induced in order to reduce the risk of difficult operative delivery.


OBJECTIVE
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of a policy of labour induction for suspected fetal macrosomia on method of delivery and maternal or perinatal morbidity.


METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register.


METHODS
Randomised trials of induction of labour for suspected fetal macrosomia in non-diabetic women.


METHODS
Trial quality assessment and data extraction were done independently by two reviewers. Study authors were contacted for additional information.


RESULTS
Two trials involving 313 women were included. Compared to expectant management, induction of labour for suspected macrosomia did not reduce the risk of caesarean section (odds ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.50 to 1.46) or instrumental delivery (odds ratio 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.48 to 1.98). Perinatal morbidity was similar between groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Induction of labour for suspected fetal macrosomia in non-diabetic women did not appear to alter the risk of maternal or neonatal morbidity.
Irion
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O
Département de Gynécologie et d'Obstétrique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Boulevard de la Cluse, 32, Geneva, Switzerland, CH-1205. olivier.irion@hcuge.ch
Boulvain
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M
D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D005320:Fetal Macrosomia; D006801:Humans; D007751:Labor, Induced; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy