Search

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of cervical ripening with 2 Foley catheter balloon volumes. Study design: Pregnant women admitted for induction of labor with a term singleton gestation were randomly assigned for cervical ripening by a balloon inflated with 30 mL or 80 mL of sterile saline. Results: Two hundred and three women were included in the analysis. Ripening of the cervix with the larger balloon volume was associated with a significantly higher rate of post-ripening dilatation of 3 cm or more (76.0% vs 52.4%, P < .001). In primiparous women, the larger balloon volume resulted in a significantly higher rate of deliveries by 24 hours (71.4% vs 49%, P < .05), and a significantly less requirement of augmentation with oxytocin (69.3% vs 90.4%, P < .05). Conclusion: Ripening of the unfavorable cervix in primiparous women with a Foley catheter balloon inflated with 80 mL provided effective more dilatation, faster labor, and decreased need for oxytocin than with a balloon inflated with 30 mL of sterile saline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the accuracy of current tests used for the diagnosis of in utero cytomegalovirus infection. Potential value of preconceptional and postconceptional screening programs for prevention of congenital infection; Reliable tests for prenatally determining the presence of viral particles.

Studies in vitro the protective effect of elevated copper zinc superoxide dismutase on the prevention of diabetes-associated embryopathy using mouse models. Glucose levels in pregnant mice and superoxide dismutase activity in embryos; Amelioration of diabetes-induced embryopathies.