Misoprostol Offers Little Benefit for Routine IUD Placement, Except in Select Cases

Highlight

• Meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials shows misoprostol provides little to no benefit in reducing pain or improving provider ease during routine IUD placement.
• Significant side effects include increased abdominal cramping and diarrhea prior to placement.
• Women with previous failed IUD placement attempts may experience improved placement success rates when given misoprostol.
• Routine use is not recommended for all patients due to limited benefit and increased adverse effects.

Background