GynaePulse
Minor & bedside proceduresFree in the app

Balloon cervical ripening

Mechanical induction with an unfavourable cervix.

Source: NICE NG207

Steps

  1. CTG first; speculum or digital placement.
  2. Pass Foley or double-balloon catheter through the internal os.
  3. Inflate per device (Foley commonly 30–60 ml).
  4. Tape to thigh with gentle traction.
  5. Leave 12–24 h or until it falls out.
  6. Then ARM ± oxytocin.
Less uterine hyperstimulation than prostaglandins.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.