Birth after induction
After induced labour
If you had a vaginal birth
Following induction, there is no significant difference in experiencing severe perineal trauma (damage to the area between vagina and anus called third- or fourth-degree tear) between women who had induction and those who did not. The chance of this happening is higher if you have an instrumental birth.(1)
Some studies suggest that there may be a higher chance of excessive bleeding after birth - over 500mls (postpartum haemorrhage) if you are induced. It may be associated with the amount of hormone drip (oxytocin) you receive during labour.(2, 3)
There is little or no difference in the ability of women to breastfeed at discharge following induction in comparison to those who spontaneously labour.
Please see the vaginal birth core information set for more postnatal information (Vaginal Birth).
If you had a caesarean birth
It is also unclear if induction affects your length of hospital stay as the evidence is very low certainty, but it may be longer if you have a caesarean birth.
Please see the postnatal caesarean birth core information set for more postnatal information (Caesarean Birth).
Your mental health
Everyone’s induction of labour experience is different – talk to your midwife or GP if you experience any sudden changes in your mood after your birth.
References:
Rcog. Third- and Fourth-degree Perineal Tears, Management 2015 [Green-top Guideline No. 29]. Available from: https://www.rcog.org.uk/media/5jeb5hzu/gtg-29.pdf.
Braund S, Deneux-Tharaux C, Sentilhes L, Seco A, Rozenberg P, Goffinet F. Induction of labor and risk of postpartum hemorrhage in women with vaginal delivery: A propensity score analysis. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. 2024;164(2):732-40.
Khireddine I, Le Ray C, Dupont C, Rudigoz RC, Bouvier-Colle MH, Deneux-Tharaux C. Induction of labor and risk of postpartum hemorrhage in low risk parturients. PLoS One. 2013;8(1):e54858.
