Discontinuing **Syntocinon®** in active labor investigated to reduce C-sections and neonatal asphyxia

Labour induction and augmentation frequently rely on exogenous oxytocin, often administered as Syntocinon®, particularly for nulliparous women who face an elevated risk of dysfunctional labour progression. Despite its widespread use and efficacy, oxytocin is designated a high-alert medication due to its narrow therapeutic index and the potential for severe adverse events impacting both the mother and the neonate. Excessive stimulation can precipitate uterine tachysystole, significantly elevating the risks of fetal distress, hypoxia, and ultimately neonatal asphyxia, alongside an increased likelihood of Caesarean section. Current standard-of-care protocols typically involve continuous oxytocin infusion throughout labour, yet the critical question of whether this sustained exogenous stimulation remains necessary once the active phase of labour is firmly established represents a significant, under-investigated clinical gap. This prospective, randomized controlled trial is specifically designed to address this gap, investigating if discontinuing oxytocin once active labour commences can effectively mitigate these well-documented risks without compromising the natural progression of labour.