Foley Catheter
A Foley balloon, also known as a cervical ripening balloon or Foley catheter, is a medical device used to induce labor or ripen the cervix in pregnant individuals. This method is often employed when there is a need to initiate labor for various reasons, such as post-term pregnancy or medical conditions that necessitate delivery.
Details about the Foley balloon:
Purpose: The primary purpose of a Foley balloon is to mechanically dilate and efface the cervix. It helps prepare the cervix for labor by stretching and stimulating the release of hormones, such as prostaglandins.
What it is: A Foley balloon is a soft, inflatable catheter that is inserted through the cervix into the lower part of the uterus. The balloon has a tip that is inflated with sterile water, and the inflated balloon gently puts pressure on the cervix.
Placement: The Foley balloon is usually inserted through the cervix and placed in the lower part of the uterus during a vaginal examination. Once in place, the balloon is filled with sterile water to create a gentle pressure against the cervix.
Mechanical Dilation: As the balloon expands, it mechanically dilates the cervix and stimulates the release of prostaglandins. This process helps soften the cervix and encourages it to efface (thin out) in preparation for labor.
Initiation of Labor: The Foley balloon is often used as an initial step in labor induction. It can be left in place for a specific period, during which the cervix is monitored for dilation and effacement. Once a certain level of cervical ripening is achieved, the balloon is typically removed, and labor may continue to progress on its own.
Considerations: The use of a Foley balloon is considered a mechanical method of cervical ripening and may be preferred in certain situations, such as when the use of medications is contraindicated or when a gradual and controlled approach to labor induction is desired.
Sources:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2019). "Induction of Labor."
UpToDate. (2021). "Induction of labor with a Foley catheter."
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