Amniotomy to induce labor.

Amniotomy to induce labor is used frequently. The potential risks compared with potential benefits of artificial rupture of membranes have caused the popularity of amniotomy to vary in the last two centuries. Although there are little data available from prospective randomized studies regarding the effectiveness of amniotomy alone to induce labor, several series have showed success in its use. In addition, no well-accepted, prospectively randomized study is available comparing the effectiveness of amniotomy to oxytocin for induction of labor. The most effective combination of amniotomy with uterotonic agents to induce labor is still a fertile area for investigation.