The Foley's catheter has tended to go 'out of vogue', perhaps being replaced by the medications now available to induce labour. The main reason that a Foley's catheter cannot be used (or will not work) is that it can sometimes be difficult for the caregiver to insert into the cervix, and it may fall out too early, because it is difficult to manoeuvre the balloon into an optimal position within the cervix. It is possible to have the catheter re-inserted a couple of times during the hospital stay. If this still does not succeed, some women will delay breaking the waters and attempt the insertion again in a couple of day's time.
If the catheter fails to dilate the cervix (or induce labour), then medications such as
prostaglandins or an
oxytocin drip may be recommended.
Advantages. A Foley's catheter is a mechanical method that does not require any medications. For women who are planning a vaginal birth after a previous Caesarean birth (or VBAC) it may be a way of inducing the labour (if needed), without the possible risks of overstimulating the uterus. You can read more about VBAC in
Class 9. Some women wish to avoid the side affects of medications and regard a Foley's catheter as a 'safer' way of inducing their labour. A Foley's catheter has no side affects, except the discomfort of the cramping. If it does not work (and the waters are left intact) the procedure can be delayed (if this is feasible).
Disadvantages. It is possible that when the caregiver inserts the catheter, the waters can be unintentionally broken. This may not be a problem, but the woman is then 'committed' to continuing with the induction and time limits for starting labour may then become an issue. If the cervix is closed or hard to reach, this method may not be able to be used.
Possible reactions for the mother and baby: