What is an induction of labour (IOL)?
Most women and birthing people go into labour by themselves, but in some cases a doctor or midwife may take steps to bring labour on. This is called induction of labour.
It's common for labour to be induced if your baby is overdue (41 weeks or over) or if there's any risk to you or your baby's health.
This risk could be if you have a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, for example, or your baby is not growing.
Induction will usually be planned in advance. You'll be able to discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your doctor or midwife, and find out why they think your labour should be induced.
It's your choice whether to have your labour induced or not.
If your pregnancy lasts longer than 41 weeks and you decide not to have your labour induced, you should be offered increased monitoring to check your baby's wellbeing.
If you decide to go ahead with an induction of labour, you will be given a date and time to attend the Delivery Suite to begin the induction process. Once your induction has been started, you will be moved to the maternity ward to await events. Your birthing partner will be able to stay with you at all times.
