Misoprostol

Misoprostol is a prescription medicine that softens the cervix and causes uterine contractions in selected medical care plans.

It is a prostaglandin medicine. Its effect depends on the dose, route, timing, pregnancy stage, and reason for treatment, so it should be used only according to a clinician's instructions.

Misoprostol can make the cervix softer and more ready to open, while also encouraging the uterus to contract. Cramping, vaginal bleeding, nausea, diarrhoea, chills, or a temporary rise in temperature may occur.

Misoprostol may be used under medical supervision for medical management of miscarriage or to help induce labour when that is clinically appropriate. The care team chooses the route and repeats or stops treatment based on examination, contractions, bleeding, and the baby's wellbeing when applicable.

Learn more about [Medical Management of Miscarriage](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/medical-management-of-miscarriage/) and [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Depending on the situation, options may include waiting for the body to progress, a procedure, another cervical-ripening method, or a different medicine. The choice is shaped by gestational stage, examination findings, bleeding, infection concerns, previous uterine surgery, and personal preferences where clinically suitable.

Your team should explain the purpose, route, timing, expected cramps and bleeding, and how to reach help. Do not take extra tablets or repeat a dose because symptoms have not changed yet. Keep track of bleeding, pain, temperature, and any medicines you have taken.

Seek urgent assessment for very heavy bleeding, fainting, severe or worsening pain, difficulty breathing, or feeling acutely unwell. After treatment, contact the care team if feverish symptoms persist, discharge smells unpleasant, or pain is not settling.

Misoprostol is generally used as a planned course rather than an indefinite medicine. Follow-up confirms whether the intended result has occurred and whether further care is needed. The schedule may include an examination, symptom review, or pregnancy-related follow-up.

Tell the clinician about previous caesarean or uterine surgery, allergies, bleeding problems, and all medicines. The same medicine can have different risks and instructions in different pregnancy situations.