Bishop Score

How to use it

1. 1

   Vaginal examination by midwife or obstetrician. Assess dilation, effacement, station, consistency, and position.

2. 2

   Score ≤ 5: unfavourable. Pre-induction cervical ripening with prostaglandins or balloon catheter.

3. 3

   Score ≥ 9: favourable. Direct oxytocin infusion or ARM without prior ripening.

When to use it

Induction of labour (IOL)

Guides method of IOL at ≥37 weeks (post-dates, medical indications).

IOL success prediction

Bishop ≤ 5: 40% CS rate. Bishop ≥ 9: lower CS rate.

VBAC assessment

Favourable Bishop supports planned vaginal birth after CS.