Ripening of the cervix using the balloon catheter prior to induction of labour

The unripe cervix sometimes presents a real problem when induction of labour is indicated.The efficacy and safety of the balloon catheter in preinduction cervical ripening is evaluated in the study. The balloon catheter was used in 66 patients at term with a mean pre-catheter Bishop Score of 2.8 + 1.3 There was a significant change in Bishop Score with a mean post - catheter Bishop Score of 7.1 + 2.2 The overall success rate using the balloon catheter was 84 percent.This instrument was found to be easy to use, efficacious, and safe with few minor complications.