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Induction of Labour
Induction of labour means starting your labour contractions with medical procedures, rather than waiting for labour to occur naturally. Your doctor or midwife may discuss induction with you if any of the following conditions are present:
- You have high blood pressure
- You have ruptured membranes without labour
- You have a medical condition such as Type I diabetes
- Your baby’s growth is less than expected
- You are at least 10 days past your due date
The decision to induce your labour is made when the benefits of starting your labour are more important for you and/or your baby’s health than the risks that may occur. Your doctor or midwife will discuss your individual situation and the available options, and together you will decide on your best choices for care.
If your induction is booked through Outpatient Fetal Monitoring (Diagnostic Ambulatory Program), the Prostaglandin Gel is the method of induction that has been chosen by your physician or midwife.
- Prostaglandin gel is given to soften and open your cervix (the opening to your uterus/womb) and may start your contractions.
- More than one dose of gel may be needed.
- Each dose is given six hours apart, depending on your contractions and what changes have occurred to your cervix.
- o You will be discharged following the procedure, unless there is a medical reason for you to be transferred to the Delivery Suite.
When do I come to the hospital?
One of our clerks will call you and tell you what time to come to the hospital. Please give yourself 15-20 minutes before your appointment time, to find parking and check in.
You should have a light meal before coming to the hospital, as you will not be able to eat or drink during the procedure.
Your partner, or another person of your choosing, should accompany you. Once you are discharged, a support person must be constantly available to assist you and provide transportation to the hospital.
Who will do my procedure?
During your induction, you will be cared for by a nurse certified in this procedure. She will consult with your doctor or midwife whenever necessary.
What will happen?
After you have changed into a hospital gown, the nurse will obtain a tracing of your baby’s heartbeat, and assess your own condition (blood pressure, temperature, pulse, etc.). This will determine if it is all right to proceed with the induction.
The Prostaglandin gel is inserted into your vagina, using a small applicator similar to one used to insert a tampon.
Once this gel is inserted, you and your baby will be observed for one hour by your nurse.
Unless there is a reason for you to stay in hospital, you will then go home. The nurse will give you written instructions so that you know what to expect.
It is common for the induction process to require a combination of methods. If prostaglandin gel alone does not start labour, your doctor/midwife will discuss another method of induction with you (e.g., Oxytocin ).
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