[38] Induction of Labour Flashcards
What is induction of labour?
The process of starting labour artifically
What proportion of pregnancies will require induction?
Approx 1 in 5
In general, why might IoL be performed?
- If it is thought that the baby will be safer delivered than remaining in utero
- If there are concerns regarding the mother’s health
What are the indications for induction of labour?
- Prolonged gestation
- Premature rupture of membranes
- Maternal health problems
- Fetal growth restriction
- Intrauterine fetal death
When should women with uncomplicated pregnancies be offered induction?
Between 40+0 and 40+14 week’s gestation
What is the aim of inducing labour in prolonged pregnancy?
Avoid the risks of fetal compromise and stillbirth associated with prolonged gestation
What should be done if the patient declines induction of labour for prolonged gestation?
The frequency of monitoring from 42 weeks onwards should be increased
What should be done for premature rupture of membranes over 37 weeks?
Either IoL or expectant management for a maximum of 24 hours
What % of women will spontaneously go into labour within the first 24 hours of premature rupture of membranes?
84%
Why should women not go for more than 24 hours with premature rupture of membranes?
Increases the risk of chorioamnioitis
What should be done in preterm premature rupture of membranes if <34 weeks gestation?
Delay IOL unless obstetric factors indicate otherwise, e.g. fetal distress
What should be done in preterm premature rupture of membranes if >34 weeks gestation?
The timing of IOL depends on risk vs beenfits of delaying pregnancy further, e.g. increased risk of infection
What maternal health problems are common indications for IOL?
- Hypertension
- Pre-eclampsia
- Diabetes
- Obstetric cholestasis
What is the second most common indication for induction of labour?
Fetal growth restriction
What is the aim of IOL for fetal growth restriction?
To deliver the baby before there is fetal compromise
When should IOL be offered for intrauterine fetal death?
If the mother is physically well with intact membranes
What are the absolute contraindications for IOL?
- Cephalopelvic disproportion
- Major placenta praevia
- Vasa praevia
- Cord prolapse
- Transverse lie
- Active primary genital herpes
- Previous classical C-section (midline incision)
What are the relative contraindications for IOL?
- Breech presentation
- Triplet or higher order pregnancy
- Two or more previous low transverse C-sections
Can IOL be offered to women who have had a previous C-section?
Yes, after she has been seen and assessed by a consultant
What should a woman having IOL after a previous C-section be made aware of?
She is at increased risk of emergency C-section and uterine rupture
What are the main methods of IOL?
- Vaginal prostaglandins
- Amniotomy
- Membrane sweep
What methods of IOL have a lack of evidence
- Homeopathy
- Acupuncture
- Sex (with the partner not a HCP)
What is the mainstay of induction of labour and the preferred primary method by NICE?
Vaginal prostaglandins
How do vaginal prostaglandins work in IOL?
They prepare the cervix for labour by ripening, and has a role in contraction of smooth muscle of uterus
What forms do vaginal prostaglandins come in?
- Tablet
- Gel
- Controlled-release pessary
What constitutes 1 cycle of the tablet/gel routine of vaginal prostaglandins for IOL?
1 cycle = 1st dose + 2nd dose if labour not started within 6 hours
What constitutes 1 cycle of the pessary regime of vaginal prostaglandins for IOL?
1 cycle = 1 dose over 24 hours