If you are offered induction

If you are offered induction

Your midwife or obstetrician should explain why you are being offered induction. They should also talk with you about the risks and benefits, explain the alternatives, and encourage you to look at sources of information. They should talk to you about when, where and how labour can be induced, and about how pain relief options may vary depending on where you are induced. You should be told what your options would be if inducing your labour doesn't work (see If induction doesn't work).

You should be given plenty of time to discuss induction with your partner or family before making a decision, and your healthcare professionals should support you in whatever decision you make. If you choose not to go ahead with induction, your midwife or obstetrician will discuss your care options with you.

Questions you might like to ask your healthcare team

  • Why am I being offered induction?

  • What are the benefits?

  • What are the risks (to me or my baby), and how likely are they?

  • Can I be induced at home?

  • How is an induced labour different from a normal labour?

  • What pain relief is available and when can I have it?

  • What happens if I choose not to be induced?