The study was designed to evaluate whether an oxytocin sensitivity test in addition to pelvic scoring would increase the predictive value concerning successful induction in cases of elective induction by means of prostaglandin (PG) E2 vaginal tablets. Furthermore we investigated if this test could lead to a further reduction in the already low rate of protracted labour and operative deliveries. In order to establish the optimal dosage we compared the endocervical application of 1.5 ml PG E2 with 3 mg intravaginal. 160 pregnant women without any risks were included at due date; 73% decided spontaneously to have labour induced by means of PG E2 tablets. In these induction groups the delivery intervals were significantly shorter and the rate of operative deliveries was reduced. The fetal outcome, however, was the same as in those women who decided to await spontaneous onset of labour. The endocervical application did not prove any better. The oxytocin sensitivity test yielded additional information about the chances of inducing labour successfully. The results confirmed again the efficacy and acceptance of this method of labour induction.