Labor Induction

What is the induction rate measure?

Labor induction (by medicine only) is when a health professional uses medicines to induce a woman’s labor before her body starts labor on its own. The induction rate used on this site indicates how often women giving birth at a particular hospital have labor that is induced using medicine. Other methods for inducing labor, such as rupturing the amniotic sac or other actions, are not included in this measure, so overall induction rates are likely higher than shown.

What does labor induction mean for me and my baby?

There are some medical situations when inducing labor may be the safest choice, but in most cases, going into labor is a good sign that both the mother’s body and the baby are ready for birth. For women who are healthy and whose babies are developing normally, evidence suggests that it’s safest to wait for labor to begin on its own.

Why do hospital labor induction measures matter?

Labor induction measure tend to be higher in hospitals where the hospital’s practices include inducing labor more often than supported by best evidence. Your chances of being induced in situations where it may not be necessary are lower in a hospital with lower induction rates.

What can I do with this information?

Take a look at the induction measure on this site for the hospital where you plan to give birth and talk with your doctor or midwife about your options.