Bishop Score

BishopCervical Ripeness Assessment

Pelvic Examination

Dilation (cm)

Effacement %

Station

Consistency

Position

Used to determine if cervical ripening (e.g. prostaglandins, Foley balloon) is indicated prior to induction of labor with oxytocin.

Bishop Calculator

Select a value for all 5 pelvic examination findings to view the total score and interpretation.

Guidelines & Evidence

Verified

Last Review: 2026

When to Use

Primary Clinical Uses

Assessing cervical readiness for labor in term pregnancies

Predicting the likelihood of successful vaginal delivery following induction of labor

Determining whether cervical ripening agents (e.g., prostaglandins) are needed prior to oxytocin administration

Target Population

Originally validated for multiparous, term women considering elective induction. Now broadly used for indicated inductions (e.g., hypertension, FGR) in both nulliparous and multiparous populations.

Last Comprehensive Review: 2026

Recent Journal Updates

WHO NewsJun 5, 2026

Africa CDC and WHO launch joint continental Ebola response plan

Clinical Context

We think this has broad domain relevance to Bishop Score.

FDA MedWatchJun 5, 2026

Anesthesia Delivery Systems Recall: GE HealthCare Issues Correction for Certain Carestations due to Risk of Ineffective Ventilation When Used in Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) Mode

Clinical Context

We think this has broad domain relevance to Bishop Score.

WHO NewsMay 31, 2026

Joint statement by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and WHO concerning the outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus

Clinical Context

We think this has broad domain relevance to Bishop Score.