In domestic mammals, it is produced by the uterus when stimulated by oxytocin, in the event that there has been no implantation during the luteal phase.

The PGF2α isoform 8-iso-PGF2α was found in significantly increased amounts in patients with endometriosis, thus being a potential causative link in endometriosis-associated oxidative stress.

Conversely, higher progesterone levels inhibit production of PGF2α and oxytocin, as the effects of the hormones are in opposition to each other.

[8] When injected into the body or amniotic sac, PGF2α can either induce labor or cause an abortion depending on the concentration used.

In small doses (1–4 mg/day), PGF2α acts to stimulate uterine muscle contractions, which aids in the birth process.

However, during the first trimester and in higher concentrations (40 mg/day),[9] PGF2α can cause an abortion by degrading the corpus luteum, which normally acts to maintain pregnancy via the production of progesterone.

[15] Arachidonic acid then reacts with two cyclooxygenase (COX) receptors, COX-1 and COX-2, or PGH synthase to form prostaglandin H2, an intermediate.