1 in 3 births are induced. It can be lifesaving, but it's also linked to more complications

Around one in three Australian women now have their labors induced rather than allowing them to begin naturally. Induction rates more than tripled from 2010 to 2023, rising from 25% to 33% overall and from 30.6% to 39.7% for first-time mothers. Induction can be lifesaving in certain medical situations, such as high blood pressure or fetal distress, but it is also linked to a higher risk of complications and less desirable birth experiences.

Our new research, based on national data, compared the experiences of 5,230 women whose labors started spontaneously to those of 2,561 whose labors were induced. We found induction was associated with higher odds of using assisted birth methods like forceps or vacuum, emergency cesarean, and episiotomy. Induced women were also more likely to report fetal distress during labor.

Moreover, they were less likely to have immediate skin-to-skin contact with their babies or receive postnatal home visits from midwives. Their babies had a higher likelihood of experiencing jaundice or being given formula, even though mothers had intended to breastfeed. The study did not find a significant difference in major perineal injuries between the two groups.

Women cared for by midwives, following continuity of care models, had the lowest rates of induction. While the study cannot prove that induction caused these outcomes, it suggests a strong association. The research highlights the need for women and clinicians to have balanced information about the potential benefits, interventions, physical effects, and psychological experiences of induction, allowing them to make informed decisions.