(Role of Dexamethasone in Induction of Labor: (A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Labor induction with prostaglandin was known since 1960. Subsequently, formulations of prostaglandin analogues were developed. Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue which is used extensively in obstetric and gynecological applications. In the developed world, the ability to induce labor has contributed to the reduction in maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. During pregnancy, large amounts of CRH are released from the placenta and fetal membranes. An increment in plasma CRH concentration occurs during spontaneous labor, with peak value at vaginal delivery. Cortisol increases the production of prostaglandins in the fetal membranes by either up regulating prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (PGHS-2) levels or down regulating prostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH).