Preparing Pregnant Women for Labor Induction

A new device has been designed to offer safe, comfortable cervical preparation (ripening) for labor without the threat of drug-based side effects or interactions.

The Cervical Ripening Balloon catheter is comprised of two silicone balloons engineered to allow the cervix to naturally and gradually dilate prior to the induction of labor. The first of two balloons is inflated on the uterine side of the cervix; the second is then inflated in the vaginal side of the cervix. The two balloons adapt to the contour of the cervical canal minimizing discomfort for the patient. When the catheter is removed, cervical conditions should have improved to a favorable state to allow for induction of labor and active labor management. The ripening balloon is a product of Cook Medical (Bloomington, IN, USA).

Studies have shown in the past few years that in the absence of a favorable or ripe cervix, a successful vaginal birth is less likely, said Christina Anné, global leader of Cook Women's Health. Not only does the Cook cervical ripening balloon improve the success rate of labor induction by safely ripening and dilating the cervix and eliminating the side effects of common medications and mechanical methods used to induce labor, it can also provide women with an easier, more comfortable birthing experience.

Labor is induced in more than 18% of deliveries and is commonly used in the instance of a post delivery date pregnancy. If labor is induced when the cervix is unfavorable it may increase the likelihood of induction failure, protracted and exhausting labors, and other complications. An undesired cesarean delivery may also result.


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