Bishop Score - Cervical Maturity Assessment
Assess cervical maturity and predict success of labor induction using the Bishop Score.
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is an educational and clinical decision support tool. Results DO NOT replace professional medical evaluation, laboratory tests, or clinical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decisions. Calculations are based on scientifically validated formulas but may not be applicable to all patients.
About Bishop Score
The Bishop Score, developed by Dr. Edward Bishop in 1964, is a pre-labor scoring system used to assess cervical maturity and predict the likelihood of successful vaginal delivery following labor induction.
Assessment Parameters
- Cervical Dilation: 0-3+ points based on cervical opening (0 cm to 5+ cm)
- Cervical Effacement: 0-3 points based on cervical thinning (0-30% to 80%+)
- Fetal Station: 0-3 points based on fetal head position relative to ischial spines
- Cervical Consistency: 0-2 points (firm to soft)
- Cervical Position: 0-2 points (posterior to anterior)
Score Interpretation
- ≥8 points: Favorable cervix - High likelihood of successful induction and vaginal delivery
- 5-7 points: Intermediate - Moderate success rate; consider cervical ripening
- <5 points: Unfavorable cervix - Low success rate; cervical ripening strongly recommended
Note: The Bishop Score is a clinical tool to aid decision-making. Individual patient factors, indication for induction, and clinical judgment should always be considered. Modified Bishop Score variations exist for specific clinical scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use the Bishop Score?
The Bishop Score should be used before considering labor induction to assess cervical readiness. It's particularly useful when planning elective induction or when there's a medical indication for induction. A high score suggests induction will likely be successful, while a low score indicates need for cervical ripening before induction.
What does a low Bishop Score mean?
A score <5 indicates an unfavorable or 'unripe' cervix for labor induction. This means higher likelihood of failed induction, prolonged labor, and possible need for cesarean delivery. In these cases, cervical ripening agents (such as prostaglandins or Foley balloon) should be considered before attempting induction with oxytocin.
Can I have successful vaginal delivery even with a low score?
Yes, it's possible but less likely. A low Bishop Score is not an absolute contraindication to induction, but indicates success is less probable. With appropriate cervical ripening using pharmacological (prostaglandins) or mechanical (Foley catheter) methods, the cervix can become more favorable. The decision should consider urgency of indication for induction and patient preferences.
How does Bishop Score differ from gestational age?
Bishop Score assesses the physical readiness of the cervix for labor, while gestational age indicates fetal maturity. A pregnant woman can be full term (≥37 weeks) but have an unfavorable cervix (low Bishop), or vice versa. Both factors must be considered: fetal maturity determines safe timing for induction, and Bishop Score helps predict induction success once it's indicated.