Fetomaternal Outcome in Pregnancies with Previous Caseraean after Cervical Ripening with Foleys Catheter and Induction of Labour

Background: The ever rising caesarean rates in Obstetric practice are a method of serious concern. A very common indication of Caesarean is history of previous caesarean. One of the reasons for this is the caution that is to be used for use of prostaglandins in these patients for cervical ripening. There are alternate methods of cervical ripening well documented in literature. One of the methods is extra amniotic use of Foleys catheter for cervical ripening which may also induce labour. Methods: The study was carried out at a Government run Maternity Hospital in an urban setting with round the clock availability of caesarean section. 75 women who met the inclusion criteria were selected after consent was taken for cervical ripening and induction of labour. Results: Out of 75 women, 46 (61.3 %) had successful induction of labour resulting in vaginal delivery. The other 29 (38.7%) patients went for lower segment caesarean section (LSCS). Out of those who went for LSCS, 09 patients had meconium staining of liquor and were taken for LSCS. There were no cases of scar rupture. The Foleys catheter was expelled in an average of 12 hours in the unsuccessful group compared to 5.5 hours in the success group. Conclusion: The Foleys catheter is a safe, cheap and easy to use method of cervical ripening in pregnancies with previous LSCS. It significantly reduces the chances of repeat caesarean in patients with previous LSCS.