Labour induction with a cervical Foley catheter balloon is safer than
pharmacological methods, particularly with previous caesarean section,
fetal compromise or limited monitoring facilities. Amniotomy is
associated with setting-specific risks. To extend balloon retention
until labour is established thus avoiding pharmacological agents or
amniotomy, we have developed a novel method of variable weighting of the
balloon catheter according to the cervical status. When the cervix is
too dilated to retain a single balloon, two Foley balloons are inserted
side by side at the same level above the cervix.