**Core Concept**
Cervical priming is a process used to ripen the cervix and facilitate labor in cases of delayed or prolonged labor. This involves the use of pharmacological agents to stimulate cervical effacement and dilation. The ideal agent should be able to induce a series of biochemical changes that promote cervical ripening.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **Misoprostol**. Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analog that is commonly used for cervical priming. It works by stimulating the production of prostaglandins, which are naturally occurring lipids that play a crucial role in cervical ripening. Prostaglandins cause the cervix to soften, efface, and dilate by increasing the production of collagenase and other enzymes that break down collagen in the cervical stroma. This process ultimately leads to cervical ripening and facilitates labor.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Oxytocin is a synthetic hormone that is used to stimulate uterine contractions, but it is not typically used for cervical priming. Oxytocin works by binding to oxytocin receptors on the surface of uterine smooth muscle cells, causing them to contract.
* **Option B:** Ritodrine is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that is used to suppress premature labor, but it is not used for cervical priming. Ritodrine works by relaxing uterine smooth muscle and inhibiting uterine contractions.
* **Option C:** Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to suppress premature labor, but it is not used for cervical priming. Indomethacin works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in cervical ripening.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Misoprostol is a teratogenic agent and should be used with caution in pregnant women. It is essential to monitor fetal well-being and uterine contractions when using misoprostol for cervical priming.

**Correct Answer:** C. Misoprostol