Bishop score
Pronunciation: BISH-up
Standardized scoring system evaluating cervical favorability for induction of labor based on five cervical and fetal parameters.
Full Definition
The Bishop score is a standardized prelabor scoring system developed by Edward Bishop to assess cervical readiness for labor induction. The score evaluates five parameters: cervical dilation (0-3 cm = 0-3 points), cervical effacement (0-80% = 0-3 points), cervical consistency (firm to soft = 0-2 points), cervical position (posterior to anterior = 0-2 points), and fetal station (-3 to +2 = 0-3 points). Total scores range from 0-13, with scores ≥8 indicating favorable conditions for vaginal delivery and scores ≤5 suggesting need for cervical ripening agents. The Bishop score helps guide induction protocols and predict successful vaginal delivery, though it has limitations in nulliparous patients and specific clinical scenarios.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize Bishop as eponymous term; specify total score and individual components when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient's Bishop score of 4 indicated an unfavorable cervix requiring cervical ripening prior to oxytocin induction." — Labor induction consultation
- "With a Bishop score of 9, the multiparous patient was considered an excellent candidate for immediate labor induction." — Obstetric management plan