International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics : the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
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Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) suppositories have been shown to be active contractile agents and are effective in uterine evacuation for mid-trimester abortion or fetal demise. In this study, 85 patients were treated with vaginal PGE2 suppositories. When laminaria were used in patients with closed cervices, and compared to those who had minimal cervical dilatation, there was no difference in the time from induction to expulsion. ⋯ In this study, 81% of the abortions were complete, and in one-third of the remaining patients dilatation and curettage was performed just after delivery of the fetus. The incidence of minor side-effects ranged from 12 to 21%, and there were no major complications. It is concluded that the use of vaginal prostaglandin E2 suppositories for induction of mid-trimester abortion or fetal demise in the third trimester is safe and effective.