A Safe and Proven Method for Cervical Ripening Before Labor

Sometimes, labor needs to be induced before the body is naturally ready. This may be due to medical reasons such as post-term pregnancy, high blood pressure, or other factors that affect the well-being of both mother and baby. When the cervix is still unripe, that is, it hasn’t softened or begun to dilate sufficiently, it must first undergo a process called cervical ripening before contractions can be effectively initiated. One common and well-established method for this is the balloon technique, and one of the most modern tools available is the Natech CVB Double-Balloon.

What Is the Balloon Method?
The balloon method involves inserting a small, soft plastic catheter through the vagina and up to the cervix. One or two small balloons are located at the tip of the catheter. A doctor or midwife fills these balloons with fluid, causing them to expand and gently press against the cervix, both from inside the cervical canal and from the vaginal side.

This gentle, even pressure helps the cervix soften, shorten, and begin to dilate, making the body more prepared for a natural birth. When the cervix has dilated enough, typically 3 to 4 centimeters, the balloon falls out on its own. It’s also common for the patient to experience some contractions after the balloon is inserted, due to the body’s natural release of prostaglandins.
The method requires the cervix to have started dilating slightly, but it is often used specifically when there’s a desire to avoid or supplement medication-based methods. It is a gentle option with a low risk of complication
The Double CVB Balloon – Why Two Balloons?
The double CVB balloon is an advancement of the traditional balloon methods. It applies consistent pressure to both the internal and external portions of the cervix simultaneously. This makes the method more effective and allows for gradual, controlled cervical ripening. It is specifically designed for full-term pregnancies where induction is medically indicated.
Benefits of the CVB Balloon
The double CVB balloon is:
- Effective: Provides gentle yet constant pressure from both sides of the cervix.
- Gentle: No hormones or medications are required.
- User-friendly for healthcare providers:
- A flexible insertion guide makes placement easy.
- Automatic valves allow for quick and safe inflation.
- Clearly marked valves and maximum fill volumes (80 ml per balloon).
- Silicone-reinforced tip for added safety.
- A flexible insertion guide makes placement easy.
- Safe for the patient: Latex-free, BPA-free, and DEHP-free.
- Practical: Comes in an 18 Fr size and has a long shelf life.
Once in place, the catheter is often taped to the inside of the patient’s thigh to keep it stable. The balloon can remain for a few hours up to 12 hours, depending on how long it takes for the cervix to ripen sufficiently.
A Part of Personalized Labor Induction
The balloon method using the double CVB balloon is now a valued part of modern, personalized maternity care. It is especially well-suited for women who cannot or do not wish to use hormonal treatments, or when healthcare providers prefer to begin with a milder approach. It’s about supporting the body in beginning labor in a way that is natural, controlled, and safe.
Check it out here. https://cetromedical.se/produkt/cvb-balloon/