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.

Globally, about 22 million infants are born with birth weight of <2500g every year, with India having the third highest incidence of low birth weight infants in the world. Low birth weight babies are at high risk of hypothermia, infections, weight loss, respiratory distress which in turn increase the mortality of these babies. Kangaroo Mother Care is a method of care of preterm or low birth weight neonates by placing them in skin to skin contact with mother or caregiver in order to ensure their growth and development. Objectives: This is a cross sectional study to assess the Kangaroo Mother Care, breastfeeding status and early discharge from the hospital with which effectiveness of Kangaroo Mother Care in reducing the risk of mortality among preterm and low birth weight infants is evident. Methods: In this cross sectional study, 1102 low birth weight babies- mother dyad in the post natal wards were evaluated. All the mothers were educated for Kangaroo Mother care method by scheduled program. Time of initiation of Kangaroo mother care and duration of kangaroo mother care were noted. The breast feeding status of the mothers were assessed and recorded. The time of discharge from the hospital also noted. The relationship between kangaroo mother care, breast feeding status and time of discharge from the hospital were studied. Results: In this study, among 1102 babies, 336(30.5%) babies received short kangaroo mother care, 636(57.7%) babies received Extended Kangaroo Mother Care, 130(11.8%) babies received long Kangaroo Mother care. Majority [553(50%)] of the babies were exclusively breast fed, 24(2%) of babies were predominantly breastfed, and 17(2%) of babies were on mixed feeds. About 4(0.4%) babies who were given extended Kangaroo Mother care were discharged within 2 days of birth with majority of babies being discharged early with early initiation of Kangaroo mother care. Conclusion: Kangaroo mother care increases exclusive breastfeeding successfully. It is safe, effective and feasible method of care for low birth weight infants

Objectives:To determine the antepartum and intrapartum risk factors leading to caesarean section in Primigravidae. Methods: A prospective study of 100 patients conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from January 2018 to June 2018. Data collected included the age of the patient, obstetric history, gestational age, clinical symptoms, antepartum and intrapartum risk factors for LSCS. Results: The most common antepartum risk factor for caesarean section in primigravidae was found to be fetal distress (41%) and the most common intrapartum finding was meconium stained liquor (27%). Conclusion: Presence of risks complicating pregnancies has increased the rates of primary caesarean section. It is prudent to carefully weigh the risks and benefits associated with caesarean section in order to improve the pregnancy outcome.