title: Mechanical methods of cervical ripening and labor induction.
abstract: This article reviews the safety and efficacy of mechanical agents for cervical ripening. Hygroscopic dilators, balloon catheters, and devices designed for cervical ripening have all been shown to be safe and effective for cervical ripening. Mechanical agents are as efficacious as other agents for cervical ripening. However, there is no method that has been conclusively shown to improve mode of delivery or perinatal outcome. The advantages of preinduction cervical ripening with mechanical devices include low cost, low incidence of systemic side effects, and low risk of uterine hyperstimulation.
authors.affiliation: Drexel University, 245 North 15th Street, MS 495, New College Building, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, USA.
authors.forename: Shari
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Gelber
authors.forename: Anthony
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sciscione
mesh_terms: D000028:Abortion, Induced / Q000295:instrumentation; D000553:Ambulatory Care; D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D020070:Cervical Ripening; D004106:Dilatation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007751:Labor, Induced / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D010120:Oxytocics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011247:Pregnancy; D016064:Vaginal Birth after Cesarean
chemical_list: D010120:Oxytocics