What is an induction of labour?
Induction of labour is the process of starting labour artificially, rather than waiting for labour to start by itself. An induction will only be performed if there’s a good medical reason, because there are risks involved.
Why is an induction performed?
Some babies may need to be born before labour starts naturally. Common reasons for an induction of labour include high blood pressure, diabetes, bleeding, baby health problems or overdue pregnancy. Induction can only be done with your consent.
How does an induction of labour work?
At National Women’s, the first stage of an induction of labour involves prostaglandin gel. This gel contains hormones similar to those produced by your own body to start labour. The hormones work by softening and shortening the cervix. The second stage of an induction is ‘breaking the waters’ (surgical induction). The third stage is an infusion of a hormone called syntocinin.
What are the risks of an induction?
- A small number of women are sensitive to prostaglandin. This can result in too frequent contractions or a prolonged contraction. If this happens and the baby’s heart rate is affected, you will be given a drug to relax the uterus and stop it contracting.
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A small number of women complain of vaginal irritation from the prostaglandin gel.
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There’s a risk that an induction won’t be successful; the usual way forward when this happens is a caesarean section.
Induction step-by-step
- Your LMC will arrange for you to be admitted to hospital as an in-patient.
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The induction process will be explained to you and your baby’s heart rate will be monitored.
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A vaginal examination will be carried out to check your cervix and to insert the prostaglandin gel.
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You will need to lie on the bed for about half an hour while the baby’s heart is monitored again.
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Some women respond to the first does of gel; others may need several doses (usually given every six hours). The induction process can take up to 48 hours.
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While you are waiting for labour to start, you can eat, drink and walk around. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids.
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The membranes may break by themselves, but often they will be broken as part of the induction process. Rupturing the membranes (surgical induction) can help labour to become established and is the second stage of an induction.
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An intravenous (IV) drip containing another hormone called syntocinon is the third stage of induction.
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When labour is established, you will be transferred to the Labour & Birthing Suite.
Support during an induction of labour
Your partner and family are encouraged to be involved. Usually your partner or support person can stay overnight, as long as we are able to provide you with a single room. An induction can take up to 48 hours, so you need to make arrangements for your other children to be cared for at home. If you really need to bring children with you during the day, please make sure there’s someone (apart from you) to look after them.