10 Things to Know Before You Have an Induction: A Comprehensive Guide

Induction of labour is a common procedure in the UK, often used to help bring on labour when there are medical concerns or when your pregnancy extends beyond 42 weeks. However, for many expectant parents, the prospect of an induction can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. While the thought of giving birth may already be overwhelming, knowing what to expect during an induction can help alleviate some of that stress.

This article will guide you through 10 things to know before you have an induction, helping you understand the process, the reasons behind it, and how to prepare physically and mentally for the experience. Whether you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy or exploring options during your antenatal appointments, this comprehensive guide will answer your questions and prepare you for a smoother journey.

1. Induction of Labour: What Does It Involve?

Induction is the process of artificially starting labour, typically when there are concerns for the health of the mother or baby, or when labour is not starting naturally. There are several methods of induction, each with its own set of considerations.

• Medications: The most common method of induction is the use of prostaglandins or synthetic oxytocin (also known as Pitocin). Prostaglandins can help soften and open the cervix, while oxytocin is used to stimulate contractions.
• Mechanical methods: A doctor or midwife may also use mechanical methods, such as a balloon catheter, to physically dilate the cervix.

Antenatal care focuses on preparing you for such scenarios, ensuring you’re educated on the process and can make informed decisions.

2. Why You Might Be Induced

Induction is generally considered when there are medical reasons to do so. While the decision will always involve careful discussion with your healthcare team, common reasons for induction include:

• Post-term pregnancy: If you reach 41 to 42 weeks and labour hasn’t started naturally, an induction may be suggested.
• Premature rupture of membranes (PROM): If your water breaks before labour begins, induction may be necessary to reduce the risk of infection.
• Health conditions: Conditions such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preeclampsia may require an induction to prevent complications for both mother and baby.
• Growth concerns: If your baby is not growing as expected, or if there are concerns about their wellbeing, induction might be considered.

In any case, antenatal appointments provide an opportunity for you to ask questions, understand the reasoning behind the decision, and explore the benefits and risks of induction.

3. Timing and When Induction Will Be Considered

Induction is generally not done until your pregnancy has reached full term, which is 37 weeks. The decision to induce depends on the medical circumstances at the time.

• Prior to 37 weeks: Induction before this time is only performed in specific cases where the risks of waiting outweigh the benefits.
• Post-term induction: After 42 weeks, the risk of stillbirth increases, and induction is more likely to be recommended.

Your antenatal scans and pregnancy care plan will monitor your baby’s growth and wellbeing, and these assessments may guide the decision on whether an induction is necessary.

4. What to Expect During the Process

The induction process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on how your body responds to the treatment. It’s important to understand that inductions do not always result in immediate labour.

• Initial preparations: If you’re using a medication such as prostaglandin, it will typically be applied in the form of a gel or pessary inserted into the vagina. This will begin to soften the cervix.
• Oxytocin drip: Once your cervix is softened, an oxytocin drip may be administered to stimulate contractions. The medical team will monitor your contractions closely to ensure they aren’t too strong or too close together.
• Breaking the waters: In some cases, the doctor may break your waters manually to help kickstart the labour process.

Your healthcare team will monitor your progress and keep you informed of every step. If you have concerns, antenatal support provides additional guidance and reassurance during this time.

5. Induction May Take Longer Than You Expect

While some women experience a quick response to induction, for others, the process may take longer. This is especially true if your cervix is not yet ready for labour. Some women may need a ripening agent such as prostaglandin, followed by a period of waiting before they begin receiving oxytocin.

• Patience is key: Sometimes, the body takes time to adjust to the medications or treatments, and the process could span over two or three days.
• Support during this waiting time: Having antenatal support and discussing your options with your midwife or doctor can help manage expectations and ease any anxiety you may have about the extended timeline.

6. Pain Relief During Induction

Induction can sometimes be more intense than spontaneous labour, particularly if the cervix is not yet ready. The increased intensity of contractions can be difficult to manage, so it’s important to discuss pain relief options with your healthcare provider beforehand.

• Natural pain relief: Many women consider antenatal yoga or relaxation techniques during pregnancy to help them manage pain. Breathing exercises, massage, and position changes can all assist with pain management.
• Medical pain relief: You may also have the option of an epidural, or a spinal block, which provides significant pain relief, or you could consider other options like gas and air (Entonox) or intravenous medications.

Knowing your pain relief options before your induction will help you feel more prepared and comfortable during the process.

7. Monitoring During Induction

Throughout the induction process, both you and your baby will be closely monitored. Your contractions will be tracked, and your baby’s heart rate will be checked regularly.

• Continuous monitoring: This is especially important if you’re receiving medication to induce labour, as the healthcare team needs to ensure that the contractions aren’t too strong and that your baby remains stable.
• Monitoring for complications: If there are any signs of fetal distress or complications, your healthcare team may decide to adjust the induction plan or even recommend a Caesarean section if necessary.

Your antenatal education during pregnancy should have prepared you for these medical interventions, ensuring you know what to expect during induction.

8. Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Before consenting to induction, it’s essential to understand the associated risks and benefits. While induction can be a life-saving procedure, it does carry certain risks, including:

• Increased risk of intervention: Some women may require an episiotomy, forceps, or a Caesarean section during induced labour.
• Higher likelihood of assisted delivery: Because of the stronger contractions, there may be a higher chance of requiring assistance with the birth.
• Failed induction: In some cases, induction may not be successful, and you may need to reconsider your birth plan.

It’s important to discuss these possibilities during your antenatal appointments, and weigh them against the benefits of a safe and timely birth.

9. Postpartum Considerations Following Induction

After an induction, you may experience different recovery patterns compared to spontaneous labour. It’s common to experience more intense contractions and increased vaginal bleeding due to the use of medications or interventions.

• Post-birth care: Your midwife will monitor your recovery closely and ensure that your uterus is contracting properly to prevent heavy bleeding.
• Rest and recovery: You will also be encouraged to rest and take care of your body following the birth. Proper antenatal care during pregnancy can help prepare your body for recovery after labour.

10. Planning Ahead with Antenatal Education

Before your induction, it’s crucial to attend antenatal classes near me or engage in antenatal education to understand your options and prepare mentally for the birth experience. These classes will cover a variety of topics, including:

• Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to manage pain.
• What to expect during induction and the steps of the procedure.
• Aftercare and recovery, including potential challenges after the induction and birth.

Having a solid understanding of the induction process helps you feel empowered and supported throughout your birth journey.