Bishop Score Calculator
Bishop Score Calculator (Labor Induction)
When a woman approaches the end of her pregnancy, one of the key decisions a healthcare provider might consider is whether to induce labor. To make an informed decision, doctors use a clinical tool known as the Bishop Score Calculator. This scoring system helps assess the readiness of the cervix for labor and predicts the likelihood of a successful induction.
What is the Bishop Score?
The Bishop Score is a pre-labor scoring system developed in 1964 by Dr. Edward Bishop. It evaluates five key components of the cervix and fetal position to estimate the chances of spontaneous labor or the success rate of induced labor.
The five components assessed in the Bishop Score are:
- Cervical dilation (how open the cervix is)
- Cervical effacement (how thinned the cervix is)
- Cervical consistency (firm, medium, or soft)
- Cervical position (posterior, mid-position, or anterior)
- Fetal station (how far the baby has descended into the pelvis)
Each factor is scored, and the total score ranges from 0 to 13.
How the Bishop Score Calculator Works
The Bishop Score Calculator adds the individual scores of the five components. Here’s a brief outline of the scoring system:
- Dilation:
- 0 cm = 0 points
- 1-2 cm = 1 point
- 3-4 cm = 2 points
- ≥5 cm = 3 points
- Effacement:
- 0-30% = 0 points
- 40-50% = 1 point
- 60-70% = 2 points
- ≥80% = 3 points
- Station:
- -3 = 0 points
- -2 = 1 point
- -1 or 0 = 2 points
- +1 or +2 = 3 points
- Consistency:
- Firm = 0 points
- Medium = 1 point
- Soft = 2 points
- Position:
- Posterior = 0 points
- Mid-position = 1 point
- Anterior = 2 points
What the Bishop Score Indicates
The total score gives clinicians a guideline on how to proceed:
- Score <6: The cervix is not favorable for induction. Labor is unlikely to begin soon on its own, and induction may not be successful without cervical ripening agents.
- Score 6–8: The cervix is moderately favorable. Induction may succeed, depending on other factors.
- Score ≥9: The cervix is favorable. There is a high likelihood of successful labor induction.
Why is the Bishop Score Important?
The Bishop Score is a vital part of planning for labor. It helps:
- Reduce unnecessary interventions
- Guide the use of medications such as prostaglandins or oxytocin
- Prevent complications from failed inductions
- Allow expectant mothers to understand the process and expectations of labor
Limitations of the Bishop Score
While the Bishop Score is a helpful tool, it is not perfect. It relies on the skill and experience of the healthcare provider and does not take into account factors such as maternal health, fetal wellbeing, or previous cesarean sections. It should always be used in conjunction with clinical judgment.
Conclusion
The Bishop Score Calculator is a trusted method to evaluate a woman’s readiness for labor and the potential success of induction. Though not infallible, it provides valuable insights for both healthcare providers and expectant mothers. By understanding the score, women can better engage in their birth planning and prepare for one of the most important moments of their lives.