Labour induction with a cervical Foley catheter balloon is safer than pharmacological methods, particularly with previous caesarean section, fetal compromise or limited monitoring facilities. Amniotomy is associated with setting-specific risks. To extend balloon retention until labour is established thus avoiding pharmacological agents or amniotomy, we have developed a novel method of variable weighting of the balloon catheter according to the cervical status. When the cervix is too dilated to retain a single balloon, two Foley balloons are inserted side by side at the same level above the cervix.