Contractions can be started by inserting a tablet (pessary) or gel into your vagina. Induction of labour may take a while, particularly if the cervix (the neck of the uterus) needs to be softened with pessaries or gels. If you have a vaginal tablet or gel, you may be allowed to go home while you wait for it to work.

How successful is pessary induction?

Approximately 75-80% of women will have given birth within 24 hours of having Propess inserted. If you start having regular contractions, we advise you to call the maternity unit to be advised on when to come back in. As your labour progresses the pessary may fall out or be removed by the midwife.

What does a pessary do for labour?

The pessary, which is inserted into the vagina, looks like a very small tampon. It contains Prostaglandins which are released slowly over 24 hours to ripen your cervix. The midwife will perform regular checks on you and your baby during this time.