Elevate induction
standards with DILAPAN-S

DILAPAN-S is a synthetic osmotic cervical dilator used to soften and dilate the cervix. It's a non-hormonal method used, among others, to prepare the cervix for labour induction. Multiple national clinical guidelines, including NICE, recommend this non-hormonal approach.

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Discover more in our video.

DILAPAN-S is made from a patented hydrogel called Aquacryl®, with a plastic handle and marker string. Used in obstetrics and gynaecology, it works purely mechanically—without any hormones or medications.

Once inserted, DILAPAN-S absorbs natural fluids from the cervix, gradually expanding and gently opening the cervical canal. This typically takes 12–15 hours. Since there are no hormones or medications involved, some expectant mums may even be eligible for outpatient cervical ripening—meaning they can go through the cervical ripening at home.

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Many expectant mums are able to keep going about their day:

• walking
• showering
• sleeping

Learn more in our video or guide to induction.

The number of dilators depends on the indication, cervical status, and intended outcome. For example:

• Cervical ripening prior to labour induction: clinical evidence shows that 4–5 dilators are typically used, achieving successful first-round cervical ripening in about 80% of induced women.
• IUD insertion or embryo transfer: one 3 mm dilator may suffice.
• Cervical preparation prior to termination of pregnancy: an average of 3 dilators was shown to provide effective preparation.

The maximum number is not defined in the product’s Instructions for Use—Specific number of pieces always depends on decision and clinical judgement of healthcare professional and indications.

DILAPAN-S can remain in situ from a few hours up to 24 hours, depending on the indication. For labour induction, the dilators typically remain in place for 12–15 hours.

Many hospitals choose to leave DILAPAN-S overnight, as its gradual mode of action means patients are more likely to be able to rest and sleep while the cervix continues to ripen.

DILAPAN-S is inserted by a healthcare professional, using either a speculum or a digital technique—whichever the clinician is most confident with and best suits the patient's anatomy. Typically 4–5 dilators are placed.

Regardless of the technique, the dilators are:

• inserted one at a time into the cervical canal
• held in sponge forceps to help placement
• passed gently through both the external and internal os without twisting
• positioned so that only the handles remain visible outside the external os

For a step-by-step demonstration of the insertion technique, read IFUs, watch our video or download step-by-step insertion leaflet.

While the insertion of DILAPAN-S may feel uncomfortable, it usually only takes a few minutes. Mums typically say that the rest of the ripening process (which generally takes 12 – 15 hours) is comfortable. Although individual sensitivity varies, clinical data suggests the procedure is well-tolerated.

Infact, a trial comparing DILAPAN-S with a dinoprostone vaginal insert found similar levels of discomfort during placement—but significantly fewer women needing analgesia overall with DILAPAN-S.

After DILAPAN-S, the cervix is usually:

• soft
• stretchy
• dilated

It may appear less effaced than with some other methods, but it’s usually prepared sufficiently. This readies it for the next step of induction—with pressure from the foetal head on the softened tissue supporting further effacement and dilation.

Clinical evidence does not link DILAPAN-S insertion to rupture of membranes (ROM), although it is theoretically possible. ROM can occur spontaneously during cervical ripening and usually indicates the onset of labour. In this case, the dilators are removed and a vaginal examination is carried out.

Data from clinical trials show that DILAPAN-S achieves reliable first-round cervical ripening success.

• In the SOLVE trial the first-round success rate was approximately 10% higher than with dinoprostone vaginal insert.
• In clinical trials on over 1000 women, approximately 4 out of 5 ripen successfully after the first round of DILAPAN-S.

Yes. DILAPAN-S is not contraindicated in premature rupture of membranes (PROM). It has been used in this setting in practice, and whether it is appropriate remains a clinical judgement for the treating physician.

Yes—DILAPAN-S is not contraindicated after a previous C-section. A clinical study evaluating this method for VBAC and TOLAC shows it can be an effective option. Because it works mechanically, the risk of uterine tachysystole is not increased.

The only contraindication listed in the Instructions for Use is a clinically apparent genital tract infection. GBS positivity itself is NOT a contraindication to DILAPAN-S insertion, as it is considered colonisation rather than a clinically apparent genital tract infection.

DILAPAN-S can be used across most patient groups; the only contraindication is a clinically apparent genital tract infection. It can be considered in pre-term, term, and post-term pregnancies, as well as in women managing systemic conditions such as hypertension or gestational diabetes, and in those with previous C-section.

No. Patients can mobilise after insertion, and there’s no need to stay lying down. Mobilisation may support the cervical ripening process.

Yes—a recommendation for its use in the outpatient setting can be found in NICE clinical guidelines, for example. Reported outcomes include a shorter length of hospital stay, a higher rate of vaginal delivery than in inpatient scenarios within 24 hours of admission, and improved maternal satisfaction (as a recent cohort study shows).

No, the use of DILAPAN-S is not limited by gestational age—the decision rests on clinical judgement.

No—continuous CTG monitoring is not mandatory during DILAPAN-S use. Clinical evidence associates the method with a low incidence of uterine tachysystole and non-reassuring foetal heart rate changes. After insertion, patients can mobilise or, where appropriate, go home for outpatient ripening.