Preparing for induction of labour

Overview

Induction of labour is a procedure where your healthcare provider starts your labour artificially, rather than waiting for it to begin naturally. It is usually offered when it is safer for you or your baby to be born sooner.

Yes, many pregnancies are induced. In the United Kingdom, around 1 in 5 labours are induced.

Induction of labour only affects pregnant individuals. It is most often offered when you are overdue (after 41 weeks) or if there is a health concern for you or your baby.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• There are no symptoms of induction itself — it is a procedure, not a condition. However, you may be offered induction if you experience symptoms like high blood pressure, decreased baby movements, or you are past your due date.

Causes

Main causes

• Induction is not a disease but a decision made when continuing the pregnancy may be risky. Common reasons include being overdue, high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia), diabetes, or the baby not growing as expected.
• Sometimes induction is chosen for personal or logistic reasons after 39 weeks.

Risk factors

• Being more than 41 weeks pregnant
• Having a medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney problems
• Having had a previous stillbirth or a baby who needed special care
• Having a low-lying placenta (placenta praevia) — though this may require a caesarean instead

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you experience any of the emergency symptoms listed above, seek help immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Discuss induction with your midwife or doctor at your antenatal appointments, especially from 38 weeks onwards.
• If you have concerns about your baby's movements or your own health, talk to your maternity team.

Diagnosis

The need for induction is decided based on your medical history, your baby's wellbeing, and test results. It is not a diagnosis of a condition but a plan of care.

Tests that may be done

• A physical exam, including checking your cervix (how soft and open it is) – this is called a Bishop score.
• An ultrasound to check your baby’s size and position.
• Blood pressure and urine tests to check for pre-eclampsia.
• A cardiotocograph (CTG) to monitor your baby's heart rate and your contractions.

What to expect at your appointment

If induction is recommended, your healthcare provider will explain the method and timing. You may have a membrane sweep in the clinic first, or you may be booked to come into the hospital. The process can take from a few hours to a couple of days.

Treatment

Induction of labour is itself a medical treatment to start labour. The method used depends on your health, your baby's wellbeing, and how ready your cervix is.

Self-care at home

• Rest as much as you can before the induction.
• Pack a hospital bag with essential items for you and your baby.
• Eat light, easily digestible food before you go to hospital (unless told otherwise).
• Stay hydrated and stay in touch with your support person.

Medical treatments

Common methods include a membrane sweep (where a midwife gently separates the membranes from the cervix), a prostaglandin gel or pessary (a small tablet or tampon-like insert placed in the vagina to soften the cervix), or artificial rupture of the membranes (breaking your waters). A hormone drip (oxytocin) may be given through a vein to start or strengthen contractions. Your healthcare team will monitor you and your baby throughout.

When is surgery considered?

If induction does not work or if you or your baby become distressed, a caesarean section may be needed. This is a surgical delivery of your baby through an incision in your abdomen and womb.

Living with this condition

Preparing for induction is a waiting period. Stay in touch with your maternity team, follow any preparation advice, and plan for time off work and childcare for older children.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active with gentle walking unless advised otherwise.
• Avoid heavy lifting or activities that strain your body.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep.
• Keep your phone charged and have a plan for getting to the hospital.

Diet and exercise

Eat balanced meals. Before induction, eat light foods if allowed. After induction and birth, eat nourishing meals – hospitals often provide meals, but you can bring healthy snacks. Gentle walks after birth can help recovery, but follow your midwife's advice.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for induction can feel stressful and emotionally draining. You may feel anxious about the unknown or worried about pain or complications. It is normal to have mixed feelings. Talk to your partner, family, or a doula. Your midwife can also offer support.

Prevention

Induction is not something you can prevent – it is a medical decision made when it is safer for you or your baby. Staying healthy during pregnancy (eating well, attending appointments, managing blood pressure) may reduce the chance of needing induction for medical reasons, but some inductions are unavoidable.

Complications

If left untreated

• If induction is needed but not done, risks include the baby being overdue and the placenta not working as well, which can lead to stillbirth.
• If medical conditions like pre-eclampsia are not managed with induction, you may have a seizure (eclampsia) or other serious complications.

Long-term outlook

Induction is a safe, common procedure. Most people who are induced go on to have a vaginal birth. Even if a caesarean is needed, you and your baby will be well cared for. The healthcare team will support you every step of the way.

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