Clinical use of misoprostol prior to transcervical procedures in non-pregnant women

ABSTRACT

Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue, is commonly used for medical abortion, cervical priming and the management of miscarriage, induction of labor and the management of postpartum hemorrhage. It can be given orally, sublingually, vaginally and rectally. It has been widely used in non-pregnant women because of its cervical ripening and uterotonic effects. A large number of studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in enhancing ease of cervical dilatation. This review article describes the pharmacokinetics and clinical use of the drug misoprostol in non-pregnant women including cervical priming before hysteroscopy, before insertion of an intrauterine device, in endometrial biopsy and before intrauterine insemination to improve pregnancy rates.