Cervical ripening before induction of labor: Comparison of an intracervical Foley catheter and prostaglandin E₂ vaginal tablets

In a prospective randomised study of 54 women with unfavorable cervix and medical indications for induction of labor, ripening of the cervix by means of a modified technique of an intracervical Foley's catheter was compared with the conventional method of intravaginal prostaglandin E₂ tablets. The interval between treatment and delivery and the outcome of induction of labor was similar in both groups. The overall rate of successful induction was 85% and there was no significant difference between the results of the 2 groups. No maternal or fetal side effects were observed. There were no complications attributable to our technique of using the intracervical Foley catheter. It is suggested that the insertion of an intracervical Foley catheter is safe and effective for ripening the cervix and induction of labor.