Membrane Sweeping Versus Transcervical Foley Catheter for Induction of Labour in Women With Previous Caesarean Delivery

Nowadays, more and more women embark on pregnancy with previous Caesarean scar. One in five pregnancies requires induction of labour. The use of non-pharmacological methods (methods without using medication) has been gaining popularity for women who are not good candidates, such as women with previous Caesarean scar, for an induction with medications such as prostaglandin. Labour induction with prostaglandin carries higher risk of uterine rupture and thus it is not routinely offered to women with previous Caesarean delivery in Sibu Hospital. Non-pharmacological methods of induction of labour appear to be safe in women with previous Caesarean delivery. However, various methods are available and the efficacy among them remain in doubt. In Sibu Hospital, membrane sweeping, which is a type of non-pharmacological method, is routinely offered to women with previous Caesarean delivery who require induction of labour. However, membrane sweeping may not exert its labour induction effect immediately and the delivery may be delayed by up to 8 days. This may render a proportion of women to resort to repeated Caesarean section for failed induction. Transcervical Foley catheter insertion is another non-pharmacological methods for labour induction. Foley catheter, which is made from latex rubber, is inserted into the womb. The balloon will be inflated and this put pressure on the cervix and encourages dilatation. This method may successfully stimulates labour and the catheter falls out once the cervix dilates to 3 centimeters. The benefits of the Foley catheter: * A favourable and safe option for mothers who are hoping for a vaginal birth after Caesarean. It is estimated that 4-7 in 10 women with previous Caesarean undergoing labour induction with Foley catheter will have successful vaginal births. * Cause the cervix to mechanically open without involving medication. * Reduced risk of uterine rupture compared to induction with prostaglandin. * Less risk of fetal distress compa