Outcome of induced labor: a cohort analysis of 247 deliveries at the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital, Cameroon

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effects of induced labor on maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods: It was a cohort study comparing the occurrence of complications during labor and the early postpartum period among 247 pregnant women consecutively recruited at the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital, Cameroon

Results: 122 of which (49.4%) underwent induction of labor and 125 (50.6%) who had spontaneous labor, from December 10th 2014 to May 10th 2015. Only women with singleton pregnancies were included. Induction of labor was mostly indicated for premature rupture of membranes (39.3%), convenience (23.0%) and prolonged pregnancy (21.3%). Women in whom labor was induced were at a greater risk of caesarean section (RR=2.56; CI=1.93-3.37) and uterine tear (RR=6.15; CI=4.77-7.92). They also had a decreased risk of episiotomy (OR=0.41; CI=0.21-0.82). Additionally, three cases of uterine rupture were recorded among them.

Conclusion: Careful selection of patients to be induced and close follow-up of induced women are recommended to prevent these identified related hazards