Induction of labour is associated with increased fetal and maternal risks, and less maternal satisfaction. In spite of this, the rates of induction around the world have been rising over the past decade. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reported that the induction rate in Australia has increased from 20% in 1991 to 28% in 2012. The increasing use of assisted reproductive techniques, rising maternal age and co-morbidities such as obesity and gestational diabetes can be attributed to this trend in the induction rates. In 2015/16, Women’s Healthcare Australia (WHA) reported a mean induction rate for primiparas as 33.5%, with a range of 15.8% to 51.6%. However, the rates of caesarean section have stabilized over the same period.
There are a variety of methods that can be used for induction of labour. These range from pharmacological methods, the mainstay of which is prostaglandins, to mechanical methods such as catheters and balloons. Different methods of induction carry their own risks. This presentation examines the indications for induction of labour, the methods available and the implications on the outcome for the mother and baby.