Labour Induction: Here’s What Happens When You Give Birth a Gentle Nudge

You’ve been counting the weeks, timing the kicks, and folding and refolding teeny onesies. And the longer your pregnancy stretches on, the more likely it is your midwife or doctor will mention labour induction to help get things moving. But what actually happens when labour gets a little nudge? How long will it take? Will it be more painful? Let’s walk through exactly what to expect, step-by-step—so you can head to hospital feeling informed and confident.

What is labour induction anyway?

Labour induction is the process of stimulating the uterus to start contractions before labour begins naturally. The goal is the same as spontaneous labour: a safe vaginal birth for you and your baby.

Why might my care team recommend an induction?

Induction may be recommended when there are health reasons for delivering your baby sooner rather than later. According to the NHS, common reasons include:

• Pregnancy continuing beyond 41 or 42 weeks
• Pre-eclampsia or high blood pressure in pregnancy
• Gestational diabetes
• Concerns about baby’s growth or low levels of amniotic fluid
• Your waters have broken but labour hasn’t started naturally
• A history of very quick births—or if you live far from hospital
• Occasionally, induction is offered from 39 weeks, but this is discussed carefully with your consultant or midwife

What happens during labour induction?

Your care team will recommend the method of induction based on how ready your body is for labour. They’ll assess your cervix using something called the Bishop Score, a 0–13 scale based on:

• Dilation – how open the cervix is
• Effacement – how thin the cervix has become
• Station – how low baby’s head is in the pelvis
• Position – whether the cervix is pointing forwards or backwards
• Consistency – whether the cervix feels soft or firm

If your cervix scores 6 or lower, it may need a bit of encouragement to soften or open up before active labour can begin.

Step 1: Ripening the cervix

If your cervix isn’t quite ready, your midwife or doctor may suggest one of the following:

• Prostaglandin pessary or gel: A medication (usually called Propess in the UK) placed into your vagina to help soften and open the cervix. It can stay in place for up to 24 hours.
• Balloon catheter: A small tube with a balloon at the tip that is inserted into the cervix and gently inflated to encourage it to open.
• Membrane sweep: Often offered before formal induction, your midwife gently sweeps a finger around your cervix to release hormones that may help start labour naturally.

Step 2: Starting contractions

Once your cervix is ready, the next step is helping your body begin regular contractions. This might involve:

• Artificial rupture of membranes (breaking your waters): A small instrument is used to break the amniotic sac, helping to trigger contractions.
• Syntocinon drip: A synthetic version of the hormone oxytocin, delivered via an intravenous (IV) drip. This is often used if contractions don’t start after your waters have been broken.

Step 3: Monitoring and progress

During an induction, you’ll usually be closely monitored to keep an eye on baby’s heart rate and how your contractions are progressing. You might be attached to a monitor with straps across your tummy or given a wireless monitor so you can stay more mobile.

Your care team may suggest changing position, using a birthing ball, or accessing pain relief options (such as gas and air, pethidine, or an epidural) to keep you comfortable.

How long does labour induction take?

This depends on a number of factors, including how ready your cervix is, whether it’s your first baby, and how your body responds. For some, labour may begin within a few hours; for others, the process can take a day or two. 

What if labour induction doesn’t work?

If the initial induction methods don’t work, your care team might:

• Wait a bit longer—sometimes it just takes time!
• Repeat the prostaglandin treatment or try another method
• Recommend a caesarean section if there are signs that baby or mum are becoming unwell

Sometimes the term “failed induction” is used—but please know: there is no failure on your part. Every birth journey is different, and your safety and baby’s wellbeing always guide the next step.

Tips for a smoother induction

• Pack extra entertainment: Labour induction can be a long process—think books, playlists, downloaded shows, and snacks.
• Ask what’s allowed: Some hospitals allow light snacks and drinks, others don’t. Check ahead of time.
• Use gravity and movement: If possible, walk around, sway, or bounce on a birthing ball to help baby move down.
• Practice calm breathing: Music, meditation, massage, and soothing white noise can all help ease early labour tension.

The bottom line

Labour induction gives nature a gentle nudge when it’s safer for your baby—or for you—to deliver sooner. The process may feel long or unpredictable, but knowing the steps ahead of time can help you feel calm and empowered. Whatever your birth story looks like, what matters most is that you and your baby are supported, safe, and celebrated.

And once your baby is earthside, our SNOO Smart Sleeper is here to help you both rest a little easier—so you can start this next chapter with confidence.

More to read:

• Tips for a More Comfortable Labour and Birth
• How to Know When Labour Is Starting
• Birth Affirmations to Keep You Grounded
  

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