Extra-amniotic prostaglandin E2 and the unfavourable cervix.

A small dose of prostaglandin E2 suspended in a viscous medium was instilled as a single application into the extra-amniotic space of patients with unfavourable induction features the day before planned induction in an attempt to improve the condition of the cervix. Two groups of 15 patients were studied, one receiving prostaglandin E2 250 mug suspended in methyl ethyl cellulose ('Tylose') 6% solution, and the other tylose alone. Cervical status did not change in those receiving tylose alone, whereas a significant improvement occurred in 14 out of 15 patients receiving the prostaglandin. Labour began before formal induction in 1 patient receiving tylose and in 8 receiving prostaglandin.