Labor induction is usually done when a pregnancy goes past its due date. Cytotec is a drug that was originally made to treat stomach ulcers, but some doctors also use it to start labor, even though it’s not approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
Doctors are human too, and sometimes they make mistakes or have to make tough decisions. Nonetheless, if you’ve suffered any complications due to them incorrectly using Cytotec on you during labor, you should talk to a birth injury attorney.
How Cytotec is Used for Labor
Doctors typically administer Cytotec in doses starting at 25 micrograms (mcg). The medication is usually inserted vaginally, though it can be taken orally as well. When it’s given, the doctor will monitor the woman closely to check if the cervix begins to soften and if contractions start.
If labor doesn’t start after the first dose, doctors may give more doses every 3 to 6 hours until labor begins. In some cases, doctors may increase the dose to 50 mcg, but higher doses come with a greater risk of side effects.
The FDA warns that higher doses of Cytotec (above 25 mcg) can increase risks, especially when medical personnel do not carefully monitor them. Cytotec’s side effects are unpredictable. Some women have no issues at all, but others might experience severe complications.
Unfortunately, because Cytotec is not FDA-approved for labor induction, there’s no way to know for sure how it will affect every woman or baby.
Risks of Using Cytotec to Induce Labor
Here’s what’s likely to happen when doctors incorrectly use Cytotec to induce labor on a pregnant woman:
Ruptured Uterus
The uterus is like a protective balloon that holds the baby during pregnancy. When a woman goes into labor, the uterus contracts to help push the baby out.
But Cytotec can sometimes cause the uterus to contract too hard or too often. If the uterus gets overworked, it can tear, and this tear is called a ruptured uterus.
If the rupture happens, the mother needs an emergency C-section as soon as possible to try to save both the baby and herself.
Heavy Bleeding
Cytotec is sometimes used to help stop bleeding after childbirth, but it can also cause the body to lose too much blood during labor. If the uterus doesn’t contract properly after the baby’s born, it can lead to postpartum hemorrhage, which is just a fancy way of saying severe bleeding.
This is really scary because too much blood loss can cause the mother to go into shock. Without emergency medical care, this shock might lead to death.
Allergic Reactions
Some people’s bodies can have an allergic reaction to Cytotec. This can happen with almost any medicine, but it’s still something to keep in mind.
When a woman’s body reacts badly to the drug, it might cause symptoms like swelling, trouble breathing, or a nasty rash.
Placenta Abruption
The placenta is an organ that attaches to the wall of the uterus and gives the baby oxygen and nutrients through the umbilical cord. When Cytotec is used, it can cause the placenta to detach too early from the uterus.
This is called placental abruption, and it’s really dangerous for the baby because it cuts off their oxygen and nutrients. If the placenta breaks away, it can even cause the baby’s heart rate to drop or lead to hypoxia (low oxygen).
Death
And then, of course, there’s the worst-case scenario: death. Cytotec, if used improperly or if complications arise, can actually be deadly. Both the mother and the baby could be at risk.
For the mom, a ruptured uterus, severe bleeding, or an allergic reaction could lead to shock, organ failure, or even death if not treated in time.
And for the newborn baby, if there’s too much time without oxygen during these complications, it could cause them to suffer brain damage or even death.
Now, this is rare, but it is still a possibility that you have to take seriously.
