Evaluation of the implementation of a protocol for the restrictive use of oxytocin during spontaneous labor

Abstract Introduction Use of oxytocin is associated with uterine hyperstimulation and postpartum hemorrhage with a dose-dependent effect. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the implementation of a protocol for the restrictive use of oxytocin during spontaneous labor on obstetric and neonatal outcomes. Material and methods We performed an observational before-and-after study among 2174 women in spontaneous labor with a term singleton cephalic fetus. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared according to the period, before (period A) and after (period B) the implementation of a protocol for the restrictive use of oxytocin. Results 1235 women were included in period A and 939 in period B. Compared to period A, the use of oxytocin during period B was significantly lower (45.5 vs. 35.1%, p  Discussion Reducing the use of oxytocin during spontaneous labor through the implementation of a protocol may reduce the iatrogenic effects without increasing the risk of caesarean section but this implies longer duration of labor.