Induction of labour using a balloon catheter
Arrival on ward 16
When you arrive on ward 16 you will receive:
Full antenatal check
Including a handheld ultrasound scan to confirm baby’s presentation
Monitoring of baby’s heartbeat
This can take up to an hour.
Vaginal examination
If it is best to break your waters, you will be offered a membrane sweep, then transferred to central delivery suite.
If it is best to use a balloon catheter, it will be inserted. There is gas and air available for pain relief if you need it. You will then have baby’s heartbeat monitored again post insertion to confirm baby’s wellbeing.
Most people are able to go home following the insertion of the balloon catheter.
Please ask your midwife if you have any questions.
You will be given an appointment to return to central delivery suite 18 to 24 hours post-insertion.
Early labour – things you can do
- take paracetamol up to every six hours
- have a lovely warm bath
- go for a nice walk
- have a little boogie
- sleep when you can
- ask your midwife for a colostrum expressing kit
Once you have left the hospital, please call the labour ward on 01642 854881 if:
- your baby’s movements change
- you are having regular contractions
- your waters break
- you have any bleeding (heavier than a show)
- you have constant abdominal pain or feel unwell
If the balloon catheter falls out at home, and there are no other concerns, please call us to let us know but there is no need to return until your scheduled appointment time.