The Cardiovascular
ToolsCalculators

Bishop score for cervical readiness

Bishop score for cervical readiness
Cervical dilation
Cervical effacement
Fetal station
Cervical consistency
Cervical position
Result0 points

Score ≤5: cervix unfavourable — cervical ripening should be considered; higher risk of failed induction.

When to use

  • Deciding whether cervical ripening is needed and estimating the likelihood of successful labour induction.

Formula

Sum five components (0–3 each for dilation, effacement, station; 0–2 each for consistency and position). Range 0–13. ≥8 favourable; ≤5 unfavourable.

Pearls and pitfalls

  • A score ≤5 (some use ≤6) generally prompts cervical ripening before oxytocin induction.

References

  1. Bishop EH. Obstet Gynecol. 1964;24:266-8.