Sweeping of membranes vs. Intracervical prostaglandin E ₂ gel for cervical ripening: Randomized trial

OBJECTIVE: To compare intracervical prostaglandin E ₂ gel and membrane sweeping for cervical ripening. STUDY DESIGN: Fifty patients were randomized to either intracervical prostaglandin E ₂ or membrane sweeping. A Bishop score was assigned by a blinded examiner prior to and 24 hours following the procedure. When both sweeping the membranes and prostaglandin placement are applicable, the beneficial effects are similar. RESULTS: The Bishop scores assigned 24 hours after prostaglandin instillation and membrane sweeping were not significantly different (3.4, SE 0.42, vs. 3.3, SE 0.37, respectively; P > .05). The proportions of women entering active labor or delivering within 24 hours were similar in the prostaglandin and membrane groups (21% and 19%, respectively; P > .05). CONCLUSION: When both intracervical prostaglandin insertion and membrane sweeping are feasible, their salutary effects are comparable.