A Review of the Mechanism of Action and Clinical Applications of Osmotic Dilators for Cervical Ripening in the Induction of Labor and in Gynecology Procedures
Maciej W. Socha, Wojciech Flis, Mateusz Wartęga, Aleksandra Kunicka, Martyna Stankiewicz
Abstract
Cervical ripening is defined as the significant softening of the cervical tissue that usually begins before the onset of contractions during labor, and is required for cervical dilation and delivery. Osmotic dilators are medical implements that dilate the uterine cervix by increasing in size as they absorb fluid from the surrounding tissue. This article aims to review the mechanisms and applications of osmotic dilators for cervical ripening in the induction of labor and in gynecology procedures.
Topics & Concepts
Cervical dilationMedicineLabor inductionCervixRipeningUterine cervixCervical dilatationGynecologyOxytocinPregnancyChemistryBiologyInternal medicineCancerGestationGeneticsFood scienceCarcinomaMaternal and Perinatal Health InterventionsMaternal and fetal healthcareGynecological conditions and treatments