The nurse is caring for a client who is late in her pregnancy. The cervix is softening should the nurse attribute to the role of prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are physiologically normal substances that resemble hormones. Prostaglandins were first identified in semen and subsequently detected in cells all over the body and in the menstrual fluid of females. In addition to having an impact on reproductive processes, prostaglandins are known to be a key factor in both causing and resolving inflammatory conditions in the body.
Prostaglandins aid in causing contractions and cervix dilation in labor-stricken pregnant women. If it is decided that you should give delivery before labor begins spontaneously, your doctor may decide to induce labor using prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins, both synthetic and natural, relax the cervical muscles and soften the cervix, which aids in dilation. Prostaglandins can be given to you as a gel, pessary (vaginal insert), or pill.
