Sometimes your obstetrician may recommend that you have an induction of labour. The reasons for this may include:
- If you are overdue
usually booked for when you have gone 12 days over your due date - If your waters have broken
for over 24 hours and you are over 37 weeks pregnant
if before 37 completed weeks then the doctors will discuss the management course with you depending on your gestation - If you or your baby have a health problem
If there are concerns about the growth or well-being of your baby
If you are developing signs of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure and there is protein in your urine) or other medical conditions related to pregnancy. If you have diabetes, the obstetricians may choose to induce you around 38 weeks - If you are known to have Group B Streptococcus (GBS)
Group B strep is a type of bacteria called streptococcal bacteria. It’s very common and usually lives in the bottom (rectum) or vagina, it is normally harmless and most people will not realise they have it. For more information about this in pregnancy please visit: Group B strep.
What happens during an induction of labour
We ask women and birthing people to come into a designated area at Conquest Hospital at a specific time for monitoring and to start the induction process. Where exactly this procedure happens depends on the reason why an induction of labour has been recommended, this will either be on Frank Shaw Ward or on the Labour Ward.
Once in established labour, women and birthing people are transferred to a room on the delivery suite. If waters are to be broken, or a hormone drip given to aid in stimulating contractions then you would be transferred to the Delivery Suite.
When on the Labour Ward you can have up to two birth supporters with you. A designated midwife will be with you to provide care, support and advice.
Please speak to a member of the midwifery or medical team if you have any questions or concerns.
If you would like to know more please see our maternity videos on Induction of Labour (IOL) and BRAIN (BRAIN is a decision-making framework and provides a helpful way to navigate situations and decisions that come up during labour and birth).