Comparing two devices for inducing labor in women with a previous C-section

Balloon Catheter vs. Hygroscopic Cervical Dilator for Labour Induction After Previous Caesarean Section: an Open Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern · NCT06506721

This study is testing two devices to see which one helps women who had a previous C-section have a quicker and safer labor.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment137 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexFemale
SponsorInsel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern (other)
Locations1 site (Bern)
Trial IDNCT06506721 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two mechanical devices, the Dilapan-S and the Cook Balloon, for inducing labor in women who have previously undergone a cesarean section. The primary focus is on the time from device placement to delivery, while secondary outcomes include the rate of cesarean deliveries and patient satisfaction. The study addresses a gap in data regarding labor induction methods for this specific patient group, as current practices often involve off-label use of these devices. Participants will be carefully selected based on their medical history and current pregnancy status.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18 and older with a previous cesarean section and an indication for labor induction between 24-42 weeks of pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients with multiple cesarean sections, certain pregnancy complications, or contraindications to labor induction will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide safer and more effective options for labor induction in women with a history of cesarean delivery.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on the direct comparison of these two devices, similar studies on mechanical induction methods have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All women \>= 18years old with a previous CS and an indication of labour induction, between 24-42 weeks of pregnancy.
* Modified Bishop-Score \< 6
* Informed consent

Exclusion criteria:

* More than 1 CS
* Premature rupture of membranes
* Vaginal infection
* Intrauterine fetal demise
* Twin pregnancy
* Contraindication against labour induction or vaginal delivery
* Vaginal bleeding
* Simultaneous external administration of prostaglandins planned
* Placenta praevia, vasa praevia or placenta accreta spectrum
* Transverse fetal orientation
* Prolapsed umbilical cord
* Prior hysterotomy, classic uterine incision, myomectomy or any other full thickness uterine incision (except C-section)
* Pelvic structural anomaly
* Active genital herpes infection
* Invasive cervical cancer
* Abnormal fetal heart rate pattern
* Breech presentation
* Maternal heart disease
* Polyhydramnios
* Presentic part above the pelvic inlet
* Severe maternal hypertension

Where this trial is running

Bern

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Delivery, Obstetric, Cesarean Section, Obstetric Delivery, Trial of Labour

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.