Q&A: Misoprostol (Cytotec)

Prostaglandins are used in labor induction and help to ripen your cervix, meaning they cause it to efface or thin, and cause uterine contractions. There are two basic types of prostaglandins, misoprostol (known under the brand name Cytotec in the United States) and dinoprostone (which goes by the trade names Cervidil and Prepidil). Misoprostol was originally approved as a medication to prevent ulcers and in the United States is commonly used “off label” to induce labor. There is documented concern of risks associated with misoprostol (Cytotec) that primarily revolves around hyperstimulating the uterus. This Q&A answers a listener question about misoprostol (Cytotec) and includes evidence based information on the risks and benefits of misoprostol (Cytotec) to induce labor.

Show notes: http://pregnancypodcast.com/misoprostol/

Thank you to Aeroflow for sponsoring this episode. Aeroflow is a company that helps you get a breast pump through your health insurance. There can be some hoops to jump through to get a breast pump through your insurance but Aeroflow does all of this for you and makes it so easy. All you need to do is fill out a form that takes just a minute and they will contact your health insurance company and work out all the details, then they will get in touch with you to help you choose the right breast pump. To get started on ordering your pump go to http://pregnancypodcast.com/breastpump/

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