Midwives, labour induction and the Wooden Spoon award part I

Abstract

Labour induction rates have rocketed, largely due to consumer demands and provider convenience. This increase has been a significant factor in rapidly increasing caesarean birth rates and adverse perinatal outcomes. It is important that midwives understand the risks associated with labour induction. The article overviews those factors contributing to increasing induction rates and the associated risks. Midwives are challenged to consider the evidence for an intervention contributing to a cascade of birth interventions.