[The effects and side-effects of the intra-cervical application of prostaglandin F-2 alpha during early pregnancy (author's transl)].

In order to avoid the traumatic dilatation of the cervix for therapeutic abortions 200 micrograms of prostaglandin F-2 alpha were injected into the cervix. The effect on dilatation of the cervix was compared with the injection of normal saline in the control group. Without side effects the injection of prostaglandin F-2 alpha resulted in dilatation of the cervix and softening of the cervix. Normal saline had no effect. At present it is unknown whether the dilatory effect of prostaglandin F-2 alpha on the cervix is local or secondary to uterine contractions.