A 28-year-old woman develops eclamptic convulsion at 37 weeks. After controlling seizures with MgSO₄, her BP remains 155/100 mmHg on labetalol. The mode and timing of delivery recommended by current Indian guidelines (FOGSI/WHO) is:

• A Emergency caesarean section within 30 minutes regardless of cervical status
• B Induction of labour within 12 hours of seizure control regardless of cervical score
• C Continue MgSO₄ for 24 hours before considering delivery
• D Aim for vaginal delivery if cervix is favourable; caesarean only for obstetric indications ✓

Explanation

Following seizure control and maternal stabilisation in eclampsia at term, delivery should be expedited but need not be by caesarean section. If the cervix is favourable, induction and vaginal delivery is preferred as it avoids surgical risks in a coagulopathic patient. Caesarean section is reserved for standard obstetric indications (unfavourable cervix, fetal distress, failed induction). MgSO₄ is continued for at least 24 hours postpartum, not as a reason to delay delivery.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.