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Healthcare Professionals

About DILAPAN-S

Transform cervical
ripening with DILAPAN-S

Explore how DILAPAN-S redefines labour induction with its multi-action approach to cervical ripening.

Download brochure
Watch instructional video

What is DILAPAN-S

DILAPAN-S is a synthetic osmotic cervical dilator made from patented hydrogel which expands to several times its original diameter through absorption of moisture from the cervical tissue.

A single dilator can expand up to 15 mm over a 12–24 hour period. Usually 4–5 dilators are inserted to safely and predictably ripen the cervix.

Approximately 80% of rod expansion occurs within the first 4–6 hours after insertion.

DILAPAN-S is designed to ripen
the cervix in three ways

A non-pharmacological cervical ripening with unique modes of action

Biophysical

Osmotic dehydratation of the cervix → softening and change in consistency of tissue

Mechanical

Expanding dilators exert radial pressure against the wall of cervical canal → gradual dilatation of the cervix

Physiological

Continuous pressure stimulates the release of endogenous prostaglandins → effacement of the cervix

The cervix gradually and predictably softens and dilates, preparing the mother for the next step in induction of labour

After the removal of DILAPAN-S, the ripe cervix may appear less effaced than with other protocols, but will be notably soft, stretchy and dilated.

The pressure of the fetal head on the stretchy, softened cervical tissue will support further effacement and dilation.

Example of optimised ripening algorithm with DILAPAN-S

Embrace efficiency in labour induction with our optimized DILAPAN-S ripening algorithm. Tailored to enhance patient experience and clinical outcomes, this step-by-step guide ensures a smooth and effective ripening process. Please note the clinical protocol after successful cervical ripening varies among maternity units and regions.

Instruction

video step by step

Learn the speculum and digital methods with our concise, step-by-step guide to simplify labour induction. Enhance your skills—start watching now!

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Test your knowledge

Assess your understanding of DILAPAN-S with our informative e-learning module. Put your knowledge to the test and see how you fare in our interactive quiz. Are you ready to take on the challenge?

Start e-learning

DILAPAN-S Technical facts

DILAPAN-S is available in boxes of 10 or 25 pieces

  • Made of patented hydrogel Aquacryl
  • Does not contain latex
  • Packed individually in a composite primary peel-open pouch
  • Sterilised by irradiation
  • Manufactured in an ISO 9001 certified facility
Dimensions available:
  • 4 mm x 65 mm
  • 4 mm x 55 mm
  • 3 mm x 55 mm

Please download the Instructions for Use (IFU) for detailed information.

Download IFU

Do you want to try DILAPAN-S?

Connect with us through our contact form for more information or locate a distributor near you to start your journey with DILAPAN-S.

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Please download the Instructions for Use (IFU) for detailed information.

Download IFU

With DILAPAN-S you

can save both time and money

DILAPAN-S has the potential to optimize care pathways, enhancing resource efficiency and lowering healthcare expenditure. Click below to learn how.

More about healthcare economics

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Cost comparison of DILAPAN-S and dinoprostone vaginal insert Propess
Managing increasing induction of labour demand
Top 5 facts about DILAPAN-S
Midwife-led induction of labour with DILAPAN-S
DILAPAN-S vs. dinoprostone vaginal insert – SOLVE trial
Transforming Induction of Labour Outcomes
Frequently asked questions about Dilapan-S
Insertion process of DILAPAN-S step by step
FAQs about Dilapan-S and induction of labour

What are the main benefits of the product?

DILAPAN-S offers a mechanical mode of action that provides multiple benefits, ranging from safety and efficacy to superior maternal satisfaction.

Learn more

Current news

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Current events

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  • 27. 9.
  • LIVE WEBINAR

Virtual training webinar with certificate

  • 8. 5.
  • CONFERENCE

Don’t miss DILAPAN-S at the RCM Congress 2024 – May 08 – 09!

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Need to know more?​

Uncover a wealth of knowledge with our comprehensive resources and detailed FAQs.

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Frequently asked questions

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Expectant Mothers

About DILAPAN-S

Gentle and comfortable,
yet effective cervical ripening

DILAPAN-S is a small, non-pharmacological cervical dilator, which gradually
helps to make your cervix ready for natural vaginal birth.

Why DILAPAN-S?

Gentle cervical ripening

The gradual, non-pharmacological effect reduces the painfulness of the ripening and decreases the need for analgesics.

Freedom of movement

Reduces the need of continuous monitoring or repeated vaginal examination. Just relax and recharge your batteries for when you need them.

Preferred by mothers

Induced women evaluate DILAPAN-S as superior to other cervical ripening products.

Non-hormonal method

Doesn't contain any drugs, so it is suitable for almost all induced women—a truly natural approach to cervical ripening.

Proven safety profile

Minimises concerns for both you and your baby—your clinician may even offer you outpatient ripening.

Verified by specialists

Trusted and recommended by healthcare professionals in over 
30 countries.

Understanding DILAPAN-S

DILAPAN-S is an osmotic dilator, made from patented hygroscopic gel—now, just bear with us, we know it might not sound exactly cozy

But in reality, the dilator—just a little bigger than a matchstick—will use fluids from your cervical tissue to gently expand, and to soften, thin, and dilate your cervix. Based on the experience of mothers, you will barely feel them in place. See how DILAPAN-S expands over time.

Learn about the induction process

You can carry on with your
day up until the Big Moment

With DILAPAN-S inserted, you can go about your usual business—so sit back, take the best nap of your life, read a book, do some gentle yoga or binge-watch your favourite show.

Simply relax and focus on the coming baby. Depending on your specific situation, your clinician may even send you home with the dilators in place. Just make sure to avoid baths and sexual intercourse.

See your induction step-by-step

What users say about DILAPAN-S?

Trusted by expectant mothers and doctors around the world.

Rods were inserted into my cervix at 5pm, I had mild contractions all night in the hospital ward but managed to sleep. At 5am doctors removed the rods to find I was successfully 4cm dilated.
Mother
source: Thepositivebirthcompany.co.uk - not verified
5 rods of dilapan were inserted into my cervix on January 4th at 12pm. DILAPAN-S was inserted using a speculum similar to a smear test. It was a little uncomfortable but I didn't need any pain relief and once it was in you couldn't feel it. I went to the toilet as normal and was told it would stay in me for 12-15 hours to help soften the cervix. During this time I was having minor contractions which felt like mild period pains.(…) All in all it's probably been the best labour out of all 3 of my children.
Mother
source: mumsnet.com - not verified
This is basically a natural way to dilate you. I couldn't find any stories about using DILAPAN-S, so I had no idea what to expect. All the induction stories that I have seen online and heard people talk about I was scared because people say that an induction can go on for days and days. But the DILAPAN-S? I would get again.
Mother
source: youtube.com - verified
Basically, they are little rods that expand. So, they put these rods up inside you, and through osmosis, they expand. There are no hormones involved in the process and that means you can go home, whereas with the things like gels and pessaries, they are all hormone based. So, there is the risk of your cervix spasming and contracting, and that can lead to a really fast labour. There is much less risk.
Mother
source: youtube.com - verified
…(with inserted DILAPAN-S) they go for a walk with their partner, they get in on the birthing ball, they're doing all those really positive things that are actually going to encourage labour rather than be stuck on a bed strapped to a monitor…
Healthcare Professional, Lead Midwife, Cardiff UK
- verified

Our women like that it’s in for a shorter period of time, there’s less risk for their baby as there’s no drugs or hormones that might cause hyperstimulation, they like the non-pharmacological option.
Healthcare Professional, Midwife, Nottingham, UK
- not verified

DILAPAN-S is a wonderful addition to our (IOL) options.
Healthcare Professional, Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Calderdale, UK
- not verified

We were getting many complaints about how painful the induction process was with [a commonly used induction method, ed. note] and I'm pleased to say we saw DILAPAN-S exceed all of the expectations with a more comfortable night's sleep and a more comfortable insertion.
Healthcare Professional, Midwifery Sister, London UK
- verified

94% of women would recommend having DILAPAN-S to a friend who had also need an induction.
Healthcare Professional, Midwifery Sister, London UK
- verified

Probably the main change (after implementing DILAPAN-S) has been the comfort of the women on the ward, women are a lot better at mobilizing, also when they need to rest they can rest, reduction in our analgesia usage…
Healthcare Professional, Lead Midwife, Cardiff UK
- verified

I've been around through a lot of inducing procedures in my time, but I must say that the DILAPAN-S that we've been using recently in the last three years has actually changed our practice quite a lot. We've expanded the number of induction of labours for us in outpatients from 2% to about 35%.
Healthcare Professional, Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Essex, UK
- verified

We particularly like using (DILAPAN-S) on high risk women and especially those with IUGR, small babies, GDM and VBACS because it does give us more control than prostaglandins.
Healthcare Professional, Matron at Royal Surrey, UK
- verified

We’re new to DILAPAN-S but we’ve seen really good results particularly in our primips. We’ve noticed improved patient flow, reduced time for induction, and freeing up more midwives since we’re not using [a commonly used induction method, ed. note], we’re not seeing women struggling with the pains and needing more attention.
Healthcare Professional, Midwife, North Cumbria, UK
- not verified

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How to ask for DILAPAN-S?

We understand that the induction process may seem challenging to navigate—but it doesn’t have to be. It’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider about all the possibilities, so you can feel confident in your choices. You can use our guide to make it easier.

1.Can you please describe my induction step by step?

2.Is my cervix open enough or should I undergo cervical ripening first?

3.If I do need a cervical ripening first, what are my options? And what are their pros and cons?

4.Are there options officially approved for my case?

5.Is outpatient cervical ripening an option for me?

6.Is DILAPAN-S suitable for me?

The DILAPAN-S

patient brochure

Learn about the insertion process and what to expect during cervical ripening with DILAPAN-S.

Download patient brochure
FAQs

Recommended articles

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Recommended videos

FAQs about Dilapan-S and induction of labour

Discover DILAPAN-S: A non-pharmacological gentle option for cervical ripening

All you need to know

Induced labour may be a time of new challenges and even concern. We want to make sure that you have all the information you need to feel confident and calm. So, let’s talk about induction of labour and DILAPAN-S—listen to all of the frequently asked questions answered in a single video.

More FAQs

Medicem Technology s.r.o.

This website may contain general information relating to various medical conditions and their treatment. Such information is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a health or fitness problem or disease. You should always consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Featured products are not approved in every market, and approved labelling, indications and instructions may vary by country.

This website may contain general information relating to various medical conditions and their treatment. Such information is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a health or fitness problem or disease. You should always consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Featured products are not approved in every market, and approved labelling, indications and instructions may vary by country. Reference the Instructions for Use for a complete listing of indications, warnings and precautions.

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