What is Cervidil and How is it Used for Labour Induction?

Cervidil is a commonly used medication for inducing labour in pregnant women. When labour doesn’t begin naturally or if there is a medical reason to speed up the process, Cervidil is often used to help prepare the cervix for delivery. For many expectant mothers, the prospect of labour induction can bring up questions and concerns, particularly about how medications like Cervidil work and what to expect during the induction process.

In this article, we will explain what Cervidil is, how it works, and why it is used for labour induction. We will also cover important considerations such as its benefits, potential side effects, and what you can expect when Cervidil is administered during antenatal care.

Understanding Cervidil: What Is It?

Cervidil is a medication that contains dinoprostone, which is a synthetic version of prostaglandin E2. Prostaglandins are natural hormones that play a crucial role in helping the cervix soften and dilate (open) during the onset of labour. Cervidil comes in the form of a vaginal insert, which is placed near the cervix to stimulate the ripening process, preparing the body for labour and delivery.

In the UK, Cervidil is often used to induce labour when a pregnancy goes beyond 41 weeks, or when there are medical reasons that necessitate early delivery, such as pre-eclampsia or concerns about the baby’s health. The medication works by encouraging the cervix to soften, shorten, and open, which helps facilitate the natural progression of labour.

For more detailed information on labour induction methods, visit the NHS guidelines on inducing labour.

How Does Cervidil Work?

Cervidil works by mimicking the action of prostaglandins, which help prepare the cervix for labour. The cervix must soften and dilate to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal during delivery. In many cases, especially when the body has not yet begun the process of labour, the cervix may be “unripe” or closed. Cervidil helps by encouraging the cervix to soften (a process known as “cervical ripening”) and begin to dilate.

The medication comes in the form of a thin, flexible insert that is placed into the vagina, close to the cervix. It contains a timed-release form of dinoprostone, which gradually releases the medication over 12 hours, stimulating cervical ripening. It’s often used as the first step in labour induction, especially if the cervix is not ready to open on its own.

If the cervix responds well to Cervidil, labour may begin naturally. However, if further assistance is needed, additional interventions such as oxytocin (a hormone that triggers uterine contractions) may be used to help progress labour.

When Is Cervidil Used?

Cervidil is generally used when a healthcare provider determines that inducing labour is necessary. Common reasons for induction include:

Post-term pregnancy: When pregnancy has extended beyond 41-42 weeks, and labour has not started naturally, there is an increased risk of complications for both mother and baby. Cervidil may be used to help initiate labour.

Pre-eclampsia: This condition involves high blood pressure during pregnancy and may require early delivery to protect the health of both mother and baby.

Health concerns for the baby: If there are concerns about the baby’s growth or development, or if there are signs of foetal distress, inducing labour may be the safest option.

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM): If the waters break but contractions do not start within a certain timeframe, Cervidil may be used to begin labour and reduce the risk of infection.

In some cases, Cervidil may also be used for pregnancy care when a medical condition arises that makes spontaneous labour risky or unfeasible.

The Cervidil Insertion Process: What to Expect

Receiving Cervidil as part of your antenatal care typically involves a hospital visit. Here’s what you can expect during the process:

Pre-insertion Assessment: Before administering Cervidil, your healthcare provider will perform an assessment, including monitoring the baby’s heart rate and checking the condition of your cervix through a vaginal exam.

Insertion: Cervidil is a small, flat insert that looks like a tiny tampon. It is placed into your vagina by a midwife or doctor, with the string left outside for easy removal later. The insertion process is similar to having a tampon or pessary placed and is usually quick and painless, though some women may experience mild discomfort.

Monitoring: Once Cervidil is inserted, you will be closely monitored for contractions and any signs of labour. The baby’s heart rate will also be monitored to ensure their well-being. Cervidil can stay in place for up to 12 hours, during which time it will release prostaglandins to help soften and dilate the cervix.

Labour Progress: In many cases, Cervidil will initiate labour by softening the cervix, allowing contractions to begin naturally. However, if after 12 hours labour has not progressed, Cervidil will be removed, and your healthcare provider may decide to proceed with other methods, such as administering oxytocin or breaking your waters.

For more information on the Cervidil induction process, refer to the National Childbirth Trust’s guide on labour induction.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Cervidil

Like all medications, Cervidil can cause side effects, though serious complications are rare. The most common side effects include:

Uterine hyperstimulation: Sometimes, Cervidil can cause excessive uterine contractions, which may need to be managed to avoid stress on the baby. In some cases, the insert may need to be removed to stop the contractions.

Nausea or vomiting: Some women may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects.

Fever: A slight rise in body temperature can occur, but this is generally temporary.

It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns you have before receiving Cervidil, especially if you have a history of uterine surgery (such as a previous caesarean section), as it may not be suitable in all cases.

For a detailed list of side effects, see the NHS Cervidil guidance.

Benefits of Cervidil in Labour Induction

The key benefits of Cervidil include its ability to start the process of cervical ripening in a controlled and relatively gentle manner. By gradually releasing prostaglandins, Cervidil allows the cervix to soften and dilate naturally, which can reduce the need for more invasive methods of induction.

Additionally, Cervidil allows for careful monitoring of both the mother and baby, as it is administered in a hospital setting under the supervision of a healthcare team. If there are any signs of complications, the insert can be easily removed, and other steps can be taken to manage the induction process.

Cervidil is often considered a first-line method for labour induction because it focuses on preparing the cervix rather than directly stimulating contractions, giving the body time to respond naturally.

Cervidil and Antenatal Care

Labour induction with Cervidil is an important consideration in antenatal care when labour does not start naturally or when it is necessary to deliver the baby for medical reasons. It is often used in conjunction with other antenatal services, such as antenatal checkups, antenatal scans, and consultations with your healthcare team.

Maintaining a healthy pregnancy through prenatal care, including regular checkups and taking antenatal vitamins, helps ensure that both mother and baby are in the best possible condition for labour and delivery. Cervidil is one of the tools used to manage safe deliveries when nature needs a little assistance.

Conclusion: What to Expect with Cervidil

Cervidil is an effective and widely used method for inducing labour in women whose cervix needs to be softened or ripened. Its gradual release of prostaglandins helps prepare the body for labour, making it easier for contractions to begin naturally. While it is generally safe, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to work closely with your healthcare provider throughout the process.

For expectant mothers considering labour induction, understanding how Cervidil works, why it may be recommended, and what the process entails can help you feel more informed and confident as you approach delivery.

For more resources and guidance on pregnancy care, visit the NHS antenatal care page.