The Bishop score is used to assess cervical favorability for induction. A Bishop score of ≥8 is considered favorable. Which component of the Bishop score is assigned the highest possible weight (0–3 points) and most strongly predicts induction success?

• A Cervical effacement
• B Fetal station
• C Cervical consistency
• D Cervical dilatation ✓

Explanation

In the original Bishop score, cervical dilatation is the only component scored 0–3 points (0 cm=0, 1–2 cm=1, 3–4 cm=2, ≥5 cm=3), and it has the greatest predictive value for successful induction. Effacement, station, consistency, and position are each scored 0–2. Cervical dilatation reflects the degree of pre-labor cervical change and is the most objective parameter. The modified Bishop score and other scoring systems (Calder score in UK) place similar emphasis on dilatation. A Bishop score ≥8 predicts vaginal delivery rates comparable to spontaneous labor, while scores <6 warrant cervical priming before induction.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.