OBJECTIVETo verify the efficacy of moxibustion at Guanyuan (CV 4) and Shenque (CV 8) on the duration of vaginal bleeding for patients with midtrimester induction of labor and explore its mechanism.

METHODSOne hundred cases of midtrimester induction of labor were divided randomly into an observation group (50 cases) and a control group (50 cases). In control group, on the day of labor induction, Mifepristone was taken orally and intraamnionic injection of Rivanol was administered in the morning. In the morning on the second day, Misoprostol was taken orally. After delivery, the uterine curettage was given and 10 U Oxytocin was injected intramuscularly. In observation group, on the basis of the treatment as control group, moxibustion was given in combination. After Rivanol injection, moxibustion was applied to Shenque (CV 8) and Guanyuan (CV 4), for 15 min each time, once every 8 h. Totally, 4 treatments were required. The mean duration of vaginal bleeding was observed and the levels of serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) were determined before and after treatment in two groups.

RESULTSThe mean duration of vaginal bleeding was (8.82 +/- 2.98) days in observation group, which was shortened apparently as compared with (10.59 +/- 3.46) days in control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the level of serum E2 increased and that of P decreased in either group (all P < 0.01). The increase of E2 in observation group was superior to that in control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONMoxibustion at Guanyuan (CV 4) and Shenque (CV 8) may shorten the duration of vaginal bleeding for patients with midtrimester induction of labor. Probably through the increase of serum E2 level and the decrease of P level, the uterine contraction is effectively enhanced and the excretion of placental villi and deciduas is promoted. As a result, endometrial repair occurs rapidly.