Controlled study of 16,16-dimethyl-trans-delta 2 prostaglandin E1 methyl ester vaginal pessaries prior to suction termination of first trimester pregnancies.

A pessary containing the prostaglandin analogue, 16,16-dimethyl-trans-delta 2 prostaglandin E1 methyl ester (Cervagem) was inserted into the vagina of primigravid women 2 h before suction termination of pregnancy. The cervix was softer, easier to dilate and more widely dilated at the start of the procedure than in a control group of women who received placebo pessaries containing the vehicle alone. Intra-operative blood loss was diminished. The incidence of pre- and post-operative abdominal cramps was increased in the Cervagem-treated group. No gastrointestinal side-effects were noted.