Misoprostol is a medication used for labor induction. Understanding its potential effects is helpful. This article details what to expect, focusing on its side effects.
Misoprostol’s Role in Labor Induction
Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue. Its primary function is to prepare the cervix for delivery. It softens and thins the cervix, a process called cervical ripening, making it more pliable for dilation.
It also has uterotonic properties, stimulating uterine contractions. These contractions initiate and strengthen labor. Misoprostol can be administered orally or vaginally, with doses typically ranging from 25 mcg to 50 mcg, often repeated every 3 to 6 hours.
Expected Side Effects
Misoprostol induction commonly causes mild side effects. Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or indigestion are common. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve within a few days.
A mild fever or chills can also occur. Uterine contractions may become more frequent or intense. This increased uterine activity is sometimes referred to as tachysystole, which means having more than five contractions in a 10-minute period over 30 minutes, but without signs of fetal distress. Headaches and dizziness are also reported.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects
While most side effects are mild, serious complications can arise. Uterine hyperstimulation, where contractions become too strong, frequent, or long, is a concern. This can lead to non-reassuring fetal heart rate changes, indicating potential fetal distress.
Uterine rupture, a rare but severe complication, occurs when the uterine wall tears. The risk is higher with a history of uterine surgery, like a prior Cesarean section. Uterine rupture can lead to significant maternal bleeding and be life-threatening for both mother and baby. Other serious but less frequent events include meconium staining of the amniotic fluid, potentially causing lung problems for the baby, and in rare cases, amniotic fluid embolism.
Recognizing When to Seek Care
Prompt recognition of certain symptoms ensures safety during or after misoprostol administration. Severe, unremitting abdominal pain that does not subside between contractions could indicate a serious complication like uterine rupture. Sudden or heavy vaginal bleeding, especially if it saturates more than one pad per hour, warrants immediate medical evaluation.
A significant decrease in fetal movement, or a change from the baby’s usual activity pattern, should also be reported immediately. Signs of infection, such as a high fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C) with chills that do not resolve, also require prompt medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a developing infection or another serious issue requiring urgent intervention.