What is induction of labour done with?

A clinician may recommend a prostaglandin medicine, such as Misoprostol, when the cervix needs preparation. It can help the cervix become softer and may bring on contractions. Oxytocin is a hormone medicine given through a vein to encourage regular uterine contractions when labour has not started or needs help progressing. A membrane sweep, breaking the waters, or a balloon catheter may also be discussed, depending on your examination and the reason for induction. The choice depends on cervical findings, pregnancy history, your baby’s wellbeing, and local maternity-unit practice.

Ask which method will be offered first, how your baby’s heart rate and contractions will be monitored, and what happens if the first method does not work. Take your maternity notes and tell the team about allergies, previous caesarean birth, medicines, and any vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage. You can read about [Misoprostol](/materials/misoprostol/) and [Oxytocin](/materials/oxytocin/) before discussing the plan. Induction can take time, so ask about pain relief, eating and drinking, movement, and who may stay with you.

Contact your maternity unit urgently if you have heavy bleeding, severe constant abdominal pain, reduced fetal movement, or fluid that is green or has an unpleasant smell. During an induction, tell staff promptly about painful contractions that do not ease, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or feeling acutely unwell. The team can assess you and your baby and adjust monitoring or treatment.

Why is induction being recommended now? Which method suits my cervix and pregnancy history? How long might each stage take? What are the alternatives if I prefer to wait?