[Prostaglandins for the induction of labor]

PGE2 has been used for labor induction for more than 10 years. Oral PGE2 appears to be the prostaglandin favoured in recent years rather than intravenous PGE2. There are fewer side effects of the drug when administered in this manner. It is concluded from the present investigation that oral and intravenous PGE2 have certain advantages as compared with other preparations for induction of labor at term, although it cannot entirely replace intravenous oxytocin. PGE2 tablets intravaginally are very effective for the priming of an unripe cervix.