Nipple Stimulation for Labor Induction

Nipple Stimulation for Labor Induction: Efficiency, Safety and Satisfaction Measures

This study will examine the use of nipple stimulation for cervical ripening in women who present to the labor and delivery ward after their water has broken but have a contraindication to prostaglandins.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Week 37 + 0 and on
• PROM (premature rupture of membranes)
• Multiparity (birth sixth or higher) or TOLAC (trial of labor after Caesarean section)
• Not in active labor - without regular contractions fetal monitor, cervical dilation < 4 cm and effacement < 80%.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Water break > 24 hours at the time of admission to the delivery room
• Active vaginal bleeding with suspected placental abruption
• Maternal fever
• Multifetal pregnancy
• Women with contraindication for vaginal birth
• Preeclampsia
• IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction)
• Macrosomia
• Non-reassuring fetal heart tracing