Context

Induction of labour is one of the most common obstetric interventions. In 2006, 22.5% of all the births in USA were as a result of labour induction.1 The mechanisms for induction of labour are generally divided into two categories: mechanical (intracervical catheter, laminaria, extra-amniotic saline infusion) and pharmacological (progesterones and oxytocin). Both methods employ prostaglandins (excluding oxytocin) to promote cervical ripening; mechanical methods cause physical dilation of the cervix and increase the release of endogenous prostaglandins while pharmacological methods involve oral or vaginal administration of exogenous prostaglandins. Two of the most common induction methods, misoprostol and the Foley catheter are used ‘off label’. The authors of this study chose to compare the two products specifically designed for cervical ripening during the …