1. Stages of Pregnancy Slideshow Pictures
2. Early Pregnancy Symptoms
3. Conception (Egg to Embryo) Slideshow Pictures

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving dinoprostone topical (Cervidil, Prepidil, Prostin E2)?

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to prostaglandins, or if you have:

• active genital herpes with a vaginal lesion;
• placenta previa (the placenta is below the fetus in your uterus); or
• if your water has broken.

Be sure your doctor knows your entire pregnancy history, especially:

• if you have ever had a C-section or major surgery on your uterus;
• if you have ever had a baby born in a breech position (not head-first); or
• if you have ever had a difficult labor or delivery of a previous child.

To make sure you can safely use dinoprostone topical, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• glaucoma;
• a history of asthma;
• if you are 30 years or older; or
• if your pregnancy is at full term (40 weeks).

How is dinoprostone topical given (Cervidil, Prepidil, Prostin E2)?

Dinoprostone is a gel that is placed directly onto the cervix through the vagina using a special applicator. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional will give you this medication.

Dinoprostone is usually given while you are lying on your back. Your doctor may use a vaginal speculum to view your cervix. This will help your doctor determine how much of this medication to use.

After you are given this medication, you will need to remain lying down for at least 15 minutes unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If your uterus does not respond to dinoprostone within 6 hours, your doctor may apply a second dose.

If your uterus responds to the medication, you may begin having regular uterine contractions within a few hours. You may also be given other medications to help stimulate your uterine contractions and make them more regular.

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