Comparison of Sublingual & Per Rectal Misoprostol versus Oxytocin in the Prevention of Postpartum Hemorrhage

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) is the most common reason of maternal death globally. Misoprostol and oxytocin are two first line and effective management protocols. But controversies exist in literature. For that matter, this study was conducted. Objectives: To compare the frequency of postpartum hemorrhage with per rectal misoprostol in relation to intramuscular oxytocin in females undergoing normal vaginal delivery at term. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore from 01-01-2019 to 01-12-2019. Patients were divided randomly into equal halves through the lottery method. Group A received Misoprostol and group B received Oxytocin. Medications were administered within one minute of clamping and the cutting of cord. During 24 hours, soaked pads were evaluated for blood loss and total blood loss was calculated. If blood loss>500ml, then PPH was labeled. Results: Mean age of women in Group A and in Group-B were 29.11±6.67 and 29.23±6.70 years. The mean gestational age for Group A came as 39.60±1.78 weeks and for Group-B, it was 39.53±1.72. In Group-A 24(15.7%) and in Group-B 59(38.6%) women suffered from PPH. PPH was significantly lower in comparison to the women in Group-B. Pvalue=0.000. Conclusion: Results of this study showed that use of per rectal Misoprostol is more suitable and effective in the prevention of Post-partum hemorrhages compared to oxytocin in females undergoing normal vaginal delivery at term.