Prostaglandin E2 induced abortion with vaginal suppositories in a contraceptive diaphragm

Prostaglandin E₂, 20 mgm vaginal suppositories were administered to two groups of women seeking termination of pregnancy. One group had the suppository inserted inside a contraceptive diaphragm. Statistical comparisons were carried out for instillation to abortion time, side effects, and intra-uterine pressure parameters. The usage of the diaphragm significantly reduced side effects, and resulted in an instillation to abortion time of 12.8 ± 2.3 hours with no failures. The quantitative analysis of the uterine pressure recordings revealed activity significantly different than that seen with intra-amniotic or extra-ovular PG F_2α. The development of uterine activity simulates that of normal labor in that elevation of resting pressure does not occur and maximum active pressure evolves slowly.