Does Artificial Rupture of Membranes (ARM) Reduce Duration of Labor in Primigravidae: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To study the effectiveness of artificial rupture of membranes(ARM) in reducing the duration of labor in primigravida.Methods: A one year prospective randomized controlled trial was carried out on 200 primigravida (100 each to ARM and no ARM group) meeting the selection criteria. The outcomes were noted in both the groups. Data analysis was done using Chi Square and Z test.Results: The mean duration of labor from enrolment to full dilation of the cervix or bearing down sensation was 4.76 � 1.64 in ARM group compared to 5.66 � 1.85 in the control group which was statistically significant (p value = 0.000; 95% ). There was no difference in the duration of second and third stage of labor in both groups. There was no significant difference in the mode of delivery between ARM and control group.There was no significant difference in mean birth weight and Apgar score between the two groups.Conclusion: ARM definitely reduced the duration of labor without any detrimental effects on fetus, mother and mode of delivery. Hence, there is no reason to strive to maintain the integrity of the fetal membranes in spontaneous labor in women where ARM is not contraindicated.