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  6. Induction of Labour using a double balloon catheter (859)
Update your RDS mobile app to v4.7.2 to download toolkits even when website is down.

We are pleased to advise that deep linking capability, enabling users to directly download individual mobile toolkits, has now been released on the RDS mobile app. You will see that each toolkit has a small QR code icon in the header area beside the search icon – see screenshot below. Clicking on this icon will open up a window with a full-size QR code and the alternative of a short URL for sharing with users. Instructions are provided.

You may need to actively update to the latest release - RDS app version 4.7.1 - to see this improvement.

Updating to this latest version of the RDS app is also strongly recommended to get the full benefits of the new resilience  arrangements – specifically, that if the RDS website should fail, you will still be able to download new mobile app toolkits. To check your current RDS version, click on the three dots bottom right of the RDS app screen. This takes you to a “More” page where you will see the version number.  To install latest updates:

On iPhones – go to the Apple store, click on your profile icon top right, scroll down to see the apps waiting to be updated and update the RDS app.

On Android phones – these can vary, but try going to the Google Play store, click on your profile icon top right, click on “Manage apps and device”, select and update the RDS app.

Please get in touch with ann.wales3@nhs.scot with any questions.

Induction of Labour using a double balloon catheter (859)

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The aim of this technique is to facilitate induction of labour in women with an unfavourable cervix. The double cervical ripening balloon mechanically dilates the cervix whilst also stimulating local prostaglandin release. As described in the NICE interventional procedures guidance IPG528 in 2015; the procedure has been shown to be safe, effective and well tolerated.

Compared to cervical ripening with vaginal prostaglandins, use of the double balloon catheter has been found to have:

  • Lower pain scores reported by women.
  • No increased risk of maternal or neonatal infection.
  • Reduced risk of uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress.
  • No increased risk of caesarean section.
  • No increased risk of neonatal adverse events.

The procedure is suitable for both inpatient and outpatient induction of labour at gestations ≥37+0wks. For less than 37 weeks gestation, discuss with on call senior obstetrician.

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Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 01/06/2021

Next review date: 28/02/2024

Author(s): Roseanna Metcalfe.

Approved By: Obstetrics Clinical Governance Group

Document Id: 859