Clinical Insights for Cervical Ripening and Labor Induction Using Prostaglandins.

Cervical ripening is often the first component of labor induction and is used to facilitate the softening and thinning of the cervix in preparation for labor. Common methods used for cervical ripening include both mechanical (e.g.

The role of prostaglandins E1 and E2, dinoprostone, and misoprostol in cervical ripening and the induction of labor: a mechanistic approach.

Purpose: Prostaglandins play a critical role in cervical ripening by increasing inflammatory mediators in the cervix and inducing cervical remodeling. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) exert different effects on these processes and on myometrial contractility. These mechanistic differences may affect outcomes in women treated with dinoprostone, a formulation identical to endogenous PGE2, compared with misoprostol, a PGE1 analog.

Speculum Lubrication and Patient Comfort: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the effect of water-based gel lubrication in decreasing discomfort during speculum examination.

Materials And Methods: Searches of standard databases were performed. Randomized controlled trials comparing speculums lubricated with water-based gel to no lubrication or water alone in women undergoing gynecologic examinations were included.