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Dinoprostone Vaginal Insert
Women who are close to the time of delivery and have a medical need for labor to be induced may be given a dinoprostone vaginal insert. This prescription medicine is a synthetic form of a naturally occurring hormone in the body that helps soften and relax the cervix so the baby can pass through. Side effects may include strong and frequent uterine contractions.
The dinoprostone vaginal insert (Cervidil®) is a prescription medication approved to relax and soften the cervix (known as cervical ripening) in preparation for labor and delivery. It is used in women who are near the time of delivery and have a medical reason that labor must be induced.
The active ingredient in this medication is dinoprostone. Dinoprostone is also available in gel form (Prepidil®).
(Click What Is Dinoprostone Vaginal Insert Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, the dinoprostone vaginal insert may cause side effects. However, not everyone who receives the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of dinoprostone vaginal inserts include but are not limited to:
- Strong or frequent uterine contractions
- Signs that the fetus is not well or fatigued.
(Click Dinoprostone Vaginal Insert Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD