Abstract

Up to 20% of labours are induced in the UK each year. The clinical requirement for induction of labour arises from circumstances in which it is believed that the outcome of the pregnancy will be better if it is artificially interrupted rather than being left to follow its natural course. Induction is associated with an increased likelihood of intervention, longer stay on the delivery suite and increased resources.1

The aim of this study was to evaluate the indications for induction of labour in our hospital. The outcomes for those women with non-standard indications was studied in detail.

From 1 January to 11 June of 2009, 588 patients were listed for induction of labour (IOL) at the Royal Blackburn Hospital out of 1850 deliveries. Those listed for induction were divided into two groups, those with commonly accepted reasons for an induction and those with non-standard reasons. In this study the authors looked in detail at those 81 cases of listed inductions which had non-standard reasons.

The case notes for these women were analyzed with regard to indication, membrane sweep and initial Bishops score. The method of induction including dose and time of Prostaglandin was noted. The overall time of hospital stay was calculated for each case and the delivery method.

The results will be presented together with our recommendations