Abstract
A pessary containing the prostaglandin [PG] analog, 16,16-dimethyl-trans-.DELTA.2 PGE1 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 abdominal cramps was increased in the Cervagem-treated group. No gastrointestinal side-effects were noted.