What is Cervidil: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Cervidil overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Cervidil, Prostin E2, Prepidil

Generic Names:

  • Cervidil

Uses:

  • Helps dilate the opening of the uterus (cervix) in a pregnant woman. Belongs to a class of drugs called prostaglandins.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Uterine Stimulant, Endocrine-Metabolic Agent

Forms:

  • Gel/Jelly, Suppository, Insert

How it’s taken:

  • Into the vagina

What is Cervidil used for?

Cervidil is a time-released medication that is used for labor induction. Cervidil contains Dinoprostone, which helps the cervix gradually soften, thin, and open for the baby to pass through the birth canal during delivery. It is used in women who are having a normal pregnancy and who are at or near their delivery due date. Cervidil may be used for abortion, trophoblastic disease and other conditions as prescribed by your doctor. It is available as a vaginal insert.

What form(s) does Cervidil come in

  • Gel/Jelly

  • Suppository

  • Insert

What are common Cervidil doses?

  • Box 1 Insert

Common Cervidil prescriptions

  • Cervidil
    1 insert box

How to take Cervidil

  • The insert will be removed 12 hours after it was inserted or when active labor begins.

  • You will need to lie on your back for up to 2 hours after the insert is put in place. You will need to lie on your back for up to 30 minutes after the gel or suppository is inserted.

  • The gel or suppository should be brought to room temperature just before being placed in the vagina.

  • A nurse or doctor will insert this medicine into your vagina so that the medicine comes into contact with your cervix. The nurse or doctor will need to use a speculum to insert the gel.

  • You will receive this medicine in a hospital or clinic, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

  • The insert will be removed 12 hours after it was inserted or when active labor begins.

  • You will receive this medicine in a hospital or clinic, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

  • You will need to lie on your back for up to 2 hours after the insert is put in place. You will need to lie on your back for up to 30 minutes after the gel or suppository is inserted.

  • The gel or suppository should be brought to room temperature just before being placed in the vagina.

  • A nurse or doctor will insert this medicine into your vagina so that the medicine comes into contact with your cervix. The nurse or doctor will need to use a speculum to insert the gel.

What to do if you miss a dose of Cervidil

  • If you use this medicine at home, store the insert or suppository in a freezer, away from heat and light until you are ready to insert it.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Cervidil contraindications

  • You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dinoprostone.

Cervidil warnings

  • If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

  • Tell your doctor if you have had any unusual vaginal bleeding, if you have had 6 or more full-term pregnancies, or if you have pelvic inflammatory disease.

  • Let your doctor know if you have heart disease, liver disease, kidney problems, asthma, lung disease, or a history of bleeding disorders, diabetes, glaucoma, or seizures.

  • Rash or itching

  • Trouble breathing or swallowing

Cervidil interactions

  • If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

  • Let your doctor know if you have heart disease, liver disease, kidney problems, asthma, lung disease, or a history of bleeding disorders, diabetes, glaucoma, or seizures.

  • Let your doctor know if you are using any other vaginal medicines.

Cervidil side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Chest pain or tightness

  • Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

  • Labor pains

  • Rash or itching

  • Trouble breathing or swallowing

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting

  • Warm feeling in the vagina

  • Headache

  • Back pain or stomach pain

  • Fever or chills

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