Cytotec

Cascade Christian Childbirth Association

ytotec is a small pill inserted into the birth canal and placed against the

cervix, used to ripen the cervix and/or induce labor. The pill is usually

broken in fourths, and one fourth is administered at a time.

THE BENEFITS

~ Cervical ripening agent

~ Able to induce or augment labor

~ Can stop postpartum hemorrhage

~ Allows person to go home after administrating the medication

~ Allows person to use the hot tub or shower

~ Does not require an IV

~ Quick labor

THE PROBLEMS

From the package insert located at:

http://www.pfizer.com/download/uspi_cytotec.pdf

~ Possible uterine rupture

~ Amniotic fluid embolism

(Amniotic fluid gets into the blood stream)

~ Pelvic pain

~ Retained placenta

(Placenta will not come out)

~ Severe vaginal bleeding

~ Shock

~ Fetal distress

~ Maternal and/or infant death

~ Long-term fetal effects unknown

~ Medication not evenly distributed throughout pill, possibility of

getting all or none of medication in a divided portion of the pill.

ALTERNATIVES

~ Avoid unnecessary induction

~ Avoid epidural anesthesia

~ Ask care provider if it is absolutely necessary.

~ Ask care provider if there are any alternatives.

CYTOTEC (MISOPROSTOL)