A Foley Bulb Induction is a method used by medical health providers to start labor while Pregnancy, Foley Bulb is also known as Foley Balloon or Foley Catheter. Its main purpose is to dilate the cervix of the mother to prepare it for labor.
Many methods are used for inducing labor including medications or amniotomy during pregnancy but medical staff chooses what is best for the patient. Foley Bulb Induction is known as one of the safe and most effective methods to induce labor while pregnancy.
Still, it all depends upon doctors what they suggest for their patient will be best for her. Which method is the best fit for a specific patient for the dilation of the cervix, it all depends upon the condition of the patient. Doctors always choose which method is safe for the baby and mother as well.
In this article, we are going to explain the working, success rate, purpose, advantages, and disadvantages of using the Foley Bulb Induction method for the dilation of the Cervix.
When does the Foley Induction method is Used?
Sometimes during pregnancy there is no need to dilate the cervix of the mother if it is working properly and is soft and thin enough to induce labor. If this is not happening naturally then doctors can think about these methods to dilate the cervix.
There are two types of cervixes: favorable and unfavorable cervix, favorable cervix doesn’t need any artificial method to dilate the cervix because it is naturally soft and thin. But an unfavorable cervix does require any method to dilate the cervix to start labor.
Foley Bulb Induction Success rate:
According to experts, the Foley Bulb Induction Success rate is almost 65%-75%, it may vary in different patients as well. There is no perfect number for the success rate of this method. It depends on different factors like
- Condition of Cervix
- Whether the mother had given birth before to the child or it is the first time for her
These are the two most important factors that decide the success rate of the Foley balloon induction method, there are many others but these two are more significant.
How is the Foley Bulb Induction Method done?
The Foley Bulb Induction method is very simple, some patients also do this at their home without going to the doctors but there is a risk because in some patients dilation process is so fast. After the completion the cervix suddenly starts dilating. So, be sure about your cervix response before doing it at home.
In this process, doctors insert a Foley bulb or Foley balloon also known as a Foley catheter into the vagina. A bowl shape speculum widens the walls of your vagina. Once the balloon is placed into your uterus then a saline solution is used to inflate the Foley bulb. Then this inflated Foley balloon puts pressure on the cervix causing it to soften and dilate.
It almost takes 12 hours to dilate the cervix completely but may vary in different patients depending upon the condition of their cervix. After the work is done most of the time the balloon falls out of the uterus on its own. Sometimes your cervix dilates but the labor process does not induce it then doctors have to use some artificial methods to rapture the water to initiate the process of labor.
How much time is required for Foley Bulb Induction?
As I have earlier said this is a very simple method that a patient can do at home. It is a very quick method and you can complete this task in less than 10 minutes but the dilation process takes almost 12-24 hours after the Foley bulb Induction.
Is Foley Bulb Induction Painful?
Most people asked Whether it is a painful process or not. Well, it all depends upon the different patients. Some feel it very unpleasant and irritating especially when the balloon starts to inflate in the uterus. But some women feel it is like wearing a giant tampon.
Advantages of Foley Balloon Induction:
There are various advantages to using these balloons
- Medication Free
- Almost dilates all the patients within 12 hours
- No Complications
- Safe and Effective
- It can also be used with medication to increase the speed
- Not too much Expensive
In the broader context of reproductive health, the seamless integration of patient information through Electronic Health Records (EHRs) becomes pivotal, capturing details of IVF treatments, Foley Bulb Induction procedures, and other critical aspects. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s reproductive journey and facilitates coordinated care among healthcare providers.
Risks Of Foley Bulb Induction:
These are some of the downsides of using this method
- Pain
- May Cause infection in some Patients
- Can change the heartbeat rate of your child
- Sometimes it does not work
Can A Foley Bulb break your water and start contractions?
Yes, this is why it is known as the most effective method because when a balloon puts pressure on the cervix it can easily break your water and start contractions. In some cases, contractions start when the balloon starts to inflate in the uterus.
Final Words from Bloginghut team:
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