Comparison Between The Effect Of Sildenafil Citrate And Routine Tocolytic Agents In A Prevention Of Preterm Labor

Abstract

Background: Labor is the occurrence of regular contractions lead to opening up of the cervix. This normally occurs at between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. Its occurrence before 37 weeks known as preterm labor. The aim of the present study is to assess the chance of term delivery in patients using vaginal sildenafil prophylactically vs using routine tocolytic agents therapeutically.

Methods: The study conducted on 60 pregnant womenwith gestational age 24- 34 weeks. they were randomly divided into two groups: Group I included 30 cases received Sildenafil citrate (50 mg once at night vaginally) from 24 week to 34 week gestation plus routine therapy for preterm labor. Group II included 30 cases who treated only with β₂-adrenergic-receptor agonists/ Isoxsuprine (duvadilan) 10 mg/btd on presence of contraction and calcium channel blocker. An assessment of uterine contraction done clinically by abdominal examination, vaginal examination for cervical dilatation and by CTG that evaluated uterine contraction severity and fetal wellbeing.

Results: The results of the present study showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in age, parity, number of preterm labor, abortions, and presence or absence of uterine pathology. Post-partum hemorrhage not recorded in 73% of control group and 50% of study group. The live birth rate was higher in the control group with higher congenital anomaly and intrauterine growth retardation of the newborns but also statistically not significant. Conclusions: Examine the healthUsing of vaginal sildenafil citrate is an effective option for prevention of threatened preterm labor than therapeutic tocolytics that used routinely.