Background:Inspite of numerous studies for finding the optimal dose of oxytocin at elective caesarean sections, oxytocin administration regimens are arbitrary and of personal preference. So it is essential to reinvestigate the appropriate dose for effective uterine contraction, with minimal blood loss and side effects.

Objective:To determine the optimal dose of bolus oxytocin for uterine contractions in elective Caesarean Section.

Methods:Ninety term mothers (37 to 41 weeks) undergoing elective LSCS under spinal anaesthesiawere enrolled in the study and dividedinto 3 groups to receive oxytocin bolus of 1 or 2 or 3 units. The uterine tone was assessed at 2 minutes after oxytocin administration. We also compared blood loss, changes in heart rate and mean arterial pressure and possible side effects.

Results:Adequate uterine contraction was seen in 66% of subjects who received 1 unit of oxytocin, and in 83.3% of subjects who received 2 units of oxytocin. All those who received 3 units of oxytocin had adequate uterine contraction. Blood loss was also significant in all 3 groups, of which more blood loss was in groups receiving least bolus dose of oxytocin.

Conclusions:Lower bolus oxytocin doses of 1 and 2 units were inadequate for uterine contraction at elective lscs, while 3 units appeared to be effective in terms of adequate uterine contraction, stable hemodynamics and absent side effects.

Key words: caesarean section, oxytocin, postpartum haemorrhage, uterotonic.