Labour induction with balloon catheters ‘safer for newborns’ than vaginal hormones
Both equally as safe for the mother, and neither leads to more caesareans, researchers say
Labour induction with balloon catheter leads to fewer adverse perinatal events including stillbirth and neonatal ICU admission than vaginal prostaglandins, a meta-analysis by Melbourne-led doctors reveals.
Although both methods had comparable caesarean delivery rates and maternal safety profiles, single- and double-balloon catheters were found to be safer for newborns.
