ABSTRACT
Induction is the process of starting labour artificially. Stimulation is the process of inducing contractions following rupture of membranes. Augmentation is the correction of inefficient uterine action once labour has started. Most women are admitted early on the morning of induction. Whether the woman is an inpatient or has been admitted that day, the senior house officer should check the period of gestation and confirm the indication for induction. The method chosen for induction will be influenced by several factors including: the period of gestation, the indication for induction, any underlying medical/obstetric problems and the favourability of the cervix. The most commonly used methods are: prostaglandin vaginal gel, artificial rupture of the membranes (ARM) and ARM/oxytocin infusion. Syntocinon should be administered using a syringe pump after one bag of syntocinon has been used. It is not normally necessary to give any other fluids intravenously unless medically indicated or an epidural is required.
