Risks for the patient
Hyperstimulation of the uterus
You may experience strong uterine contractions that are too close together (less than two minutes apart). If this occurs, your care provider will remove or stop the agent causing the contractions. You might also receive a medication to relax the uterus.
Infection
Prolonged rupture of amniotic membranes increases the risk of infection. Once the amniotic membranes are ruptured, you will be monitored closely for signs of infection. If an infection is suspected, you may require antibiotics during labour.
Bleeding
Induction of labour with certain medications (i.e. oxytocin) increases the risk of bleeding after delivery. If there is heavy bleeding after delivery, you may require medications, blood products, and in rare cases surgery to manage the bleeding.
Cesarean section
An induction of labour may result in a Cesarean section for the same reasons as someone who enters labour spontaneously. The main reasons for a Cesarean section in labour include the baby does not tolerate labour, or the cervix stops dilating.
Unsuccessful induction of labour
The induction process may not result in labour. In this case, your care provider will review the risks and benefits of another induction versus delivery via Cesarean section.
Uterine rupture
The risk of uterine rupture (tearing of the uterus) is higher in patients who have previously had a Cesarean section or other uterine surgery. If the uterus ruptures during labour, you will require an emergency Cesarean section. This is a rare complication.
Risks to the baby
Fetal heart rate changes
The medications used to induce labour may cause uterine contractions that are too close together. This can sometimes place stress on the baby, leading to a change in the baby’s heart rate. If this occurs, your care provider will remove or stop the agent causing the contractions. You might also receive a medication to relax the uterus.
Cord prolapse
A portion of the umbilical cord can slip out through the open cervix and sit in front of the baby’s head where it can limit blood supply to the baby. This happens uncommonly after the amniotic membranes have been ruptured. If this occurs, you will require an emergency Cesarean section.
Infection
Prolonged rupture of amniotic membranes increases the risk of infection. Once the amniotic membranes are ruptured, your baby will be monitored closely for signs of infection. If there are concerns for infection, you may require antibiotics during labour. The baby will also be assessed after delivery for infection.