OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety as well as maternal and fetal outcome of intracervical Foley catheter balloon versus oxytocin infusion as pre-induction cervical ripening agents in live term pregnancies with unfavorable cervices.
METHODS: Forty-two patients who fulfilled the induction criteria were randomized to 2 groups. Group 1= intracervical balloon catheter and Group 2= oxytocin infusion. Both groups were compared as to: insertion/infusion to active phase interval, induction to delivery interval, uterine hyperstimulation, pain intensity, delivery and fetal outcome. Analysis of data collected was done using Indepedent T-test.
RESULTS: Statistical analysis showed no significant difference as to insertion/infusion to active phase interval (p 0.814) and induction to delivery interval (p 0.264) between the balloon and oxytocin groups. By percentage comparison, both groups have comparable results in the mode of delivery, likelihood of cesarean section and good fetal outcome. Statistical significance was observed with regards to absence of uterine hyperstimulation (p 0.036) and absence of pain (p 0.000) in favor of the balloon group.
CONCLUSION: By percentage comparison, intracervical Foley catheter balloon and oxytocin were both effective and safe in achieving cervical dilatation. The Foley catheter showed statistical significance in terms of absence of uterine hyperstimulation and pain. Foley catheter is readily available and affordable. It may be considered as a good alternative to oxytocin.