In this brief overview of the use of prostaglandins (PGs) in obstetrics the author began with the disclaimer that the mode of action of PGs is still largely unknown on the human female reproductive organs and that PGs are not luteolytic in women in acceptable doses. PGE2 is recommended for management of intrauterine death given extraamniotically in a viscous solution 2.5 mg or less. 300 mcg PGE2 was given to 15 women with unfavorable cervix who were to have labor induced the next day. 8 went into labor and the rest showed improved cervical scores. Oral PGE2 is useful for inducing labor especially for multiparas with favorable cervical scores where doses of .5-2 mg every 1 or 2 hours are sufficient. If higher doses are needed gastrointestinal side effects are likely. For late first trimester abortion where cervical dilatation will be necessary most British physicians favor surgical evaculation rather than high doses of PGs.