A real world comparison of second stage methods of induction of labour
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A real-world comparison of second stage methods of induction of labour (Propess Prostaglandin pessary 10 versus the Cooks double cervical balloon) and evaluation of feasibility outcomes.
IRAS ID
285628
Contact name
Happy Tawadros
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Hywel Dda University Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
When labour does not start on its own, different methods can be used to help to make the neck of the womb soft and ripe enough to break the membranes. This is called induction of labour. In the UK, the most common method is to use a prostaglandin pessary (type of hormone) put inside the vagina.
Another way to induce labour is to use a device called a double cervical balloon, at the opening of the cervix. This is generally used if a woman has had a previous caesarean section, or if the baby is smaller than average. Research has found little difference between these two ways as a first method of inducing labour but less is known about the best method to use after prostaglandins have been used but have not started labour.Our study is for women who have been given one dose of prostaglandins but whose cervix is not ripe enough to break waters within 24 hours. Participants will choose either more prostaglandins or the double cervical balloon as a second step. We will record the time between this second method of induction to the woman’s waters breaking. We will record how often hyperstimulation (strong contractions that can disturb the baby’s heartbeat) occurs, what pain relief is given, how often oxytocin (a medication that makes the womb contract) is used, how many babies are born vaginally or by caesarean section and babies’ outcomes. We will ask participants about their experiences of being induced.
We aim to explore whether the double cervical balloon is a more effective second stage method of inducing labour, whether its use could increase the chance of vaginal delivery, lead to shorter hospital stays and improve maternal satisfaction.
REC name
Wales REC 2
REC reference
22/WA/0190
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jul 2022
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion