I started inserting them at 36 weeks - I inserted 2 tablets (well DH did for me!) and I didn't break them open, they break open themselves.

Mine were 1000mg ones as well. I didn't take any orally cos I was already taking other stuff to help with ripening the cervix and all that. Plus I was rubbing clary sage oil (very weak mixture with another oil) on my belly every night before bed.