Balloon vs drug: which is safer for inducing labor in overdue pregnancies?
NCT ID NCT02907060
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested two ways to soften the cervix (cervical ripening) in women with prolonged pregnancies (41+ weeks). One method uses a drug called Propess (dinoprostone), the other uses a soft balloon device placed in the cervix. The goal was to see which method leads to fewer C-sections due to signs of fetal distress. Over 1,200 women took part. The results could help doctors choose the safest approach for overdue babies.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- dinoprostone (Propess) and a double transcervical balloon (Cook Cervical Ripening Balloon)
- What this could lead to
- If the balloon works better, it could offer a safer, gentler way to start labor in overdue pregnancies, reducing emergency C-sections.
- What could go wrong
- This trial is already completed, so results are known. The balloon may not reduce C-sections as hoped, and both methods have risks like infection or uterine hyperstimulation.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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CHU CAEN
Caen, 14033, France
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Ch Chartres
Chartres, France
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Ch Departemental Vendee
La Roche-sur-Yon, 85925, France
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Ch Pontoise
Cergy-Pontoise, 95303, France
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Chi Poissy
Poissy, France
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Chru Tours
Tours, 37044, France
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Chu Brest
Brest, France
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Chu Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, 63001, France
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Chu Nantes
Nantes, 44093, France
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Chu Reims
Reims, 51092, France
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Chu Rennes
Rennes, France
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Chu Saint Etienne
Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, 42270, France
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Chu Toulouse
Toulouse, France
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Hopital Saint Joseph
Marseille, 13008, France
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