Misoprostol for Induction of Labour FAQs: Misoprostol is an oral tablet (medication that you swallow) which can be used to induce (start) labour. It is a type of medication known as a prostaglandin, which is similar to a substance naturally produced in the body to cause the uterus (womb) to contract.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Misoprostol (Angusta ®) for Induction of Labour - Frequently Asked Questions |
| Department | Maternity |
| Author(s) | Kerry Horne |
| Review Date | June 2026 |
| Next Review | June 2028 |
| Download | A5 Booklet PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is misoprostol?
Misoprostol is an oral tablet (medication that you swallow) which can be used to induce (start) labour. It is a type of medication known as a prostaglandin, which is similar to a substance naturally produced in the body to cause the uterus (womb) to contract.
Why am I being offered misoprostol?
There is currently a national shortage of dinoprostone (often known as Propess ® or Prostin ®), which are the medications normally used at this hospital for induction of labour. So that we can continue to offer a safe service, we have changed our guidelines to be able to offer misoprostol instead to women whose waters have broken but who need medication to help start their contractions.
How will I be given the misoprostol?
Misoprostol is given as a tablet for you to swallow. You may be given up to 3 doses, each one 2 hours apart, if your labour hasn’t started.
What happens next?
If your labour hasn’t started after 3 doses of Misoprostol, your induction will continue following our normal pathway, which is a hormone drip. This will not be started until at least 4 hours after your last misoprostol tablet.
Is misoprostol safe for me and my baby?
Misoprostol is a safe medication which has been used for many years and is used for induction of labour in other hospitals. Any time a woman is having an induction of labour we monitor her and her baby very closely, by taking observations, checking the contractions, and monitoring the baby’s heart rate. This will be the same with misoprostol.
Occasionally, induction medication can cause the uterus to contract more frequently than intended. This can sometimes affect your baby's wellbeing. You and your baby will be monitored closely throughout the induction process and, if excessive contractions occur, no further doses will be given. An injection of a medicine called terbutaline may be given to help relax the uterus and reduce the frequency of contractions.
What if I am still not sure about taking misoprostol?
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to the midwife or doctor who is looking after you who will be able to answer your questions and discuss other options.
