Pitocin and Cytotec: Medications for Induction

By : Admin

Most physicians use oxytocin (pitocin) to start labor. Pitocin must be administered in the hospital, and with an IV. The dose is gradually increased until steady contractions begin. Many women report having much stronger contractions with pitocin.

Use of pitocin usually means you will have to have constant fetal monitoring for stress from the contractions.

Many practitioners are using a new drug called Cytotec for inductions. It doesn't require an IV, instead, it's a small pill placed next to the cervix. It's very successful in ripening a cervix and starting labor.

There has been much controversy concerning this method as it didn't have FDA approval for inducing labor (mainly an ulcer medicine) but as of May 2002 (pdf file) it has been approved with a large list of contraindications of use. If this is a method which you would like to consider, be sure to fully investigate your options and make sure you do not fall under any of the contraindicated categories as many women have very heartbreaking results after using this option.

Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor.