Induction of Labour: What to Consider

Induction of Labour (IOL) is a method of artificially providing stimulus to the uterus to start the process of labour.1 It utilises iatrogenic therapies such as a synthetic oxytocin, cervical ripening medications, in conjunction with the artificial rupture of membranes, to imitate the physiology of labour and childbirth.2 The indication for IOL is dependent on the clinical need to optimise maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes, juxtaposed with the potential adverse effects of the IOL process. Indications include uterine, placental and fetal growth disorders, hypertensive conditions and diabetes.3 For example, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommend IOL between 37 and 38 plus six weeks for pregnant populations who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, to prevent stillbirth and associated complications.4 The absolute effectiveness of IOL intervention in preserving maternal and fetal health is evident5 however, the World Health Organization (WHO) endorses the consideration of choice of IOL method.6