Induction of labour

Recently, more and more pregnant women have improved their understanding of the labour process and are inclined to induce as their choice of childbirth. Induction of labour is not risk-free, and many women are reluctant to have it for their childbirth. Induction of labour is the process to start labour artificially. There are different methods of induction to help the cervix soften and open out and make the uterus (womb) start contracting. Induction of labour should be performed only with a clear justification and indication, and the expected benefits outweigh its potential harms. Wherever induction of labour is performed, facilities should be available for assessing maternal and foetal well-being. Women receiving medical induction should never be left unattended. Failed induction of labour does not necessarily indicate caesarean section. Careful anticipation of complications associated with various methods of induction is mandatory during the process of induction. Nevertheless, an appropriate selection of induction with a systematic and multidisciplinary team approach and vigilant monitoring is crucial for achieving favourable maternal and foetal outcomes.