Does obstetrics perform induction of labour?

Induction starts labour using medicines or procedures rather than waiting for labour to begin on its own. An obstetrician reviews your pregnancy, examination findings, baby's wellbeing and the reason induction is being considered. The maternity team may prepare the cervix, break the waters or use an oxytocin infusion, depending on your situation and how labour progresses.

The process can involve waiting between steps and monitoring contractions and the baby's heart rate. Your clinician should explain expected benefits, possible drawbacks, alternatives and what may happen if induction does not establish labour.

Ask when to arrive, whether to eat or take regular medicines, and how long the initial assessment may take. Share details of previous caesarean birth, allergies, medical conditions and your preferences for pain relief. Pack items for a possible hospital stay and arrange support for childcare or transport. Read the consent information and raise concerns before treatment begins.

Call your maternity unit for heavy bleeding, fluid loss, regular contractions, severe abdominal pain, fever, or reduced baby movements. During induction, tell staff promptly about constant pain between contractions, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, severe headache or feeling faint. Follow the unit's instructions if your waters break or labour starts before the planned appointment.

Ask why induction is advised now, which method is proposed first, how progress will be assessed, what pain-relief choices are available and what the plan is if labour does not progress.