This study aims to demonstrate that a 3-hour ultra-short cervical ripening protocol using a double-balloon catheter significantly reduces the induction-to-birth interval by at least 6 hours compared to the standard 12-hour protocol. The study evaluates whether this reduction can be achieved without increasing cesarean section rates or maternal-fetal risks
Scientific Justification: Labor induction affects 25% of pregnancies in France, with 70% requiring cervical ripening. While the 12-hour pose is standard, recent evidence suggests that shorter durations (6h) are effective but remain difficult to integrate into hospital workflows. Since the mechanical and physiological effects of the balloon are early phenomena, a 3-hour protocol could optimize bed management and patient comfort. Strategy: Comparison between an experimental group (3-hour balloon pose followed by immediate active labor management regardless of Bishop score) and a control group (standard 12-hour balloon pose). Follow-up: Participants are followed from the day of induction until hospital discharge (generally 2 to 10 days) to assess obstetric outcomes, neonatal safety, and maternal satisfaction.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
280
For both arms, the same double-balloon device is used. After the allocated time (3h or 12h) or spontaneous expulsion, active labor management is initiated, including early amniotomy and/or oxytocin administration
CH de Pau
Pau, France
induction-to-birth interval reduction
Time (in hours) between the effective initiation of labor induction (balloon insertion) and the birth of the child
Time frame: balloon insertion and birth of the child
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