Sometimes your obstetrician may recommend that you have an induction of labour. The reasons for this may include:
- Post dates induction (usually booked for when you have gone 12 days over your due date).
- If your waters have broken (spontaneous rupture of membranes/SROM) for over 24 hours and you are over 37 weeks pregnant. If your waters break before 37 completed weeks then the doctors will discuss the management course with you depending on your gestation.
- If your waters have broken and you are known to have Group B Streptococcus (GBS).
- 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 there are concerns about the growth or well-being of your baby.
- If you have diabetes, the obstetricians may choose to induce you around 38 weeks.
Inductions of labour are either carried out on Frank Shaw or on the Delivery Suite, depending on the reason for your induction. You will be asked to contact the delivery suite to ensure it is possible to start your induction. You will be asked to come to the designated area at a given time, for monitoring and to start the induction process; this may take in excess of 24 hours, sometimes longer.
Once you are in established labour, or if you require your waters to be broken or a hormone drip to stimulate the contractions, you will be transferred to a room on the delivery suite. You can have up to two birth supporters with you on the Delivery Suite. You will also have a designated midwife to provide you with care, support and advice.