Comparative study of induction of labour with Foley’s catheter inflated to 30 mL versus 60 mL

Background: The ripeness of the cervix is an important determinant of the success of induction of labour. One of the mechanical methods of cervical ripening is the use of a transcervical Foley catheter. In this study we compared the efficacy in induction of labour of two insufflation volumes of Foley catheter bulb 30 mL and 60mL. Methods: This was a randomized, single-blind study conducted in 100 women, randomly allocated to the 30 mL group (n=50) and 60 mL group (n=50). Foley’s catheter was removed after 12 hours if it was not spontaneously expelled. If the Bishop score was more than 6, oxytocin infusion was started. Labour was monitored and outcomes noted. Results: Both groups had similar demographic profile, gestational age and indication for induction of labour. The primary outcome i.e., induction delivery interval was not statistically different in the two groups. The secondary outcomes i.e., Foley’s catheter expulsion time, change in Bishop score, need for and dose of oxytocin, mode of delivery and neonatal outcome also did not show any statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions: Both 30 mL and 60 mL foley’s catheter bulb insufflation volumes were comparable in inducing labour.