Question

A 22-year-old G1 presents at 42 weeks gestation. Her cervix is long and closed. She does not report contractions and states there is good fetal movement. You discuss the benefits of induction at this time versus waiting until she goes into labor spontaneously. She agrees to proceed with an induction. Which of the following means should be used to ripen the cervix in this patient?

A. Artificial rupture of membranes
B. Membrane stripping
C. Oxytocin infusion
D. Prostaglandin E1 tablet
E. RU486 (progesterone antagonist)

Answer 1

The best method to ripen the cervix in this patient would be the use of Prostaglandin E1 tablet.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, the best method to ripen the cervix in this patient would be the use of Prostaglandin E1 tablet (option D).

Cervical ripening is the process of preparing the cervix for labor and delivery. Prostaglandins, such as Prostaglandin E1, are commonly used to ripen the cervix and promote cervical softening and dilation in cases of induction.

Oxytocin infusion (option C) is used to stimulate contractions during labor, but in this case, the cervix is long and closed. Artificial rupture of membranes (option A) and membrane stripping (option B) are not appropriate methods for ripening the cervix in this patient.