Using cervical ripening balloons for outpatient dilation and evacuation

Cervical Ripening Balloon for Same-Day Cervical Preparation for Second Trimester Termination

Not applicable Interventional University of New Mexico · NCT06964373

This study is testing if using cervical ripening balloons is as safe and acceptable as osmotic dilators for preparing women before a same-day outpatient dilation and evacuation procedure.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of New Mexico Academic / other
Locations1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
Trial IDNCT06964373 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cervical ripening balloons compared to osmotic dilators for preparing the cervix before same-day outpatient dilation and evacuation (D&E). The study will assess whether the balloon method is non-inferior in terms of safety and feasibility, as well as patient acceptability. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the cervical ripening balloon or osmotic dilators and will complete surveys regarding their experiences. The goal is to improve outpatient D&E procedures for patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 and older who desire outpatient D&E and meet specific gestational criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with medical conditions requiring operating room management or those preferring D&E in the operating room may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a safer and more acceptable method for cervical preparation before outpatient D&E procedures.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is being tested, similar studies using cervical ripening balloons have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who desire outpatient dilation and evacuation (D\&E)
* At least 18 years of age
* Able and willing to consent
* Gestational duration between 18 weeks 0 days and 19 weeks 6 days as determined by ultrasound
* Able to read and understand English or Spanish
* Able to obtain reliable post-procedure transportation
* Able to observe fasting guidelines of 6 hours prior to the D\&E procedure

Exclusion Criteria:

* Medical conditions that require procedural management in the operating room
* Preference for D\&E procedure in the operating room

Where this trial is running

Albuquerque, New Mexico

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.
Conditions Dilation and Evacuation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.