Abstract: The use of an agent for controlling vascular permeability within the cervix is disclosed for controlling cervical ripening. To hasten cervical ripening, the agent is one which increases vascular permeability and is selected from VEGF121, VEGF145, VEGF165, VEGF189, VEGF206, a smaller, active VEGF fragment, and placenta growth factor (PlGF). If cervical ripening is to be delayed, the agent is one which reduces vascular permeability, e.g. a VEGF receptor antagonist or antibody. The agents of the present invention can be used as a means of managing labor.

Abstract: The use of an agent for controlling vascular permeability within the cervix is disclosed for controlling cervical ripening. To hasten cervical ripening, the agent is one which increases vascular permeability and is selected from VEGF121, VEGF145, VEGF165, VEGF189, VEGF206, a smaller, active VEGF fragment, and placenta growth factor (PIGF). If cervical ripening is to be delayed, the agent is one which reduces vascular permeability, e.g. a VEGF receptor antagonist or antibody. The agents of the present invention can be used as a means of managing labor.

Abstract: The use of a) an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor such as Captopril or Enalapril, b) an angiotensin II-receptor antagonist such as Saralasin or Losartan, or c) a renin inhibitor, such as Remikiren or [N-(pyridyl-3-propionyl)-phenylalanyl-histidyl-(3S,4S) ACHPA-isoleucylamino]-2-methyl-2-dihydroxy-1,3-propane, for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of uterine fibroids is disclosed. The ACE inhibitor may be used concomitantly or sequentially with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist such as Buserelin or Goserelin.