Induction of labour

Induction refers to the process of stimulating uterine contractions with the aim of facilitating a vaginal delivery. There are various reasons for inducing labour, including post-term pregnancy, maternal complications (pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, etc.) or foetal factors (growth restriction, abnormal blood flow or CTG, etc.).

Labour induction is possible even in cases of multiple pregnancies, breech presentations or following a caesarean section. For every pregnant woman for whom induction is planned, we draw up an individual plan based on her specific circumstances. For women who have previously had a caesarean section, we use mechanical methods only.

Methods of labour induction

Pre-induction with a balloon – if the cervix is found to be immature, it is first necessary to carry out so-called preparation using a ‘balloon’; which is a soft urinary catheter (Foley catheter) that is usually inserted into the cervix during a gynaecological examination in the evening; a balloon at its tip is filled with saline solution and left in the birth canal overnight.   During insertion, irritation occurs in the area around the balloon, leading to the local production of prostaglandins – substances needed to soften, open and improve the flexibility of the cervix. The balloon may fall out spontaneously during insertion, or it is removed the following morning and other methods are used.

Rupture of the amniotic sac – if the condition of the cervix is very favourable, labour can be induced simply by rupturing the amniotic sac. This is performed using a special hook inserted vaginally to reach the amniotic sac. The rupture itself is not painful. 

Prostaglandins – substances naturally produced by the body at the end of pregnancy to prepare the birth canal – are administered in small tablets directly into the cervix (Prostin E2), or a similar synthetic molecule is taken orally (Angusta); the aim is to induce uterine contractions.