Research looking at the effects of induction of labour shows this is associated with few beneficial outcomes and several adverse outcomes.
Routine induction in healthy women not supported by evidence
Tag: research
Women’s experiences of augmentation of labour
A study looking at women’s experiences of augmentation of labour has highlighted problems with informed decision making and shown that having a synthetic oxytocin infusion in labour can cause an atypically painful labour and lead to negative birth experiences. Alòs-Pereñíguez…
Another study, another dodgy headline! Please don’t steal our coffee!
A study was published in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology entitled ‘Associations between consumption of coffee and caffeinated soft drinks and late stillbirth—Findings from the Midland and North of England stillbirth case-control study’. The media…
Delaying cord clamping for six minutes is safe
Research has added to our knowledge about delaying cord clamping. We know now that it is safe to wait 6 minutes after birth, even when an oxytocic drug is given to assist with the birth of the placenta. Waiting, which…
What time are babies most likely to be born?
What time are babies most likely to be born? As a home birth midwife, I’m well aware that a good many babies like to be born in the deep of the night. But what does the evidence say about this?…
Women are not given adequate information about induction
Another survey has identified a continuing problem with women not being able to get clear information about induction of labour (PIF 2021). This study was conducted by the Patient Information Forum in collaboration with a number of birth charities. It…
Ten reasons to question the draft NICE Guideline on inducing labour
May 2021 saw the publication of a draft NICE guideline on inducing labour. NICE stands for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. It is the body that provides national guidance and advice to inform health and social care…
Home birth after caesarean
Home birth after caesarean (or HBAC) is an increasingly popular option. Women and families know that they will be less subject to monitoring and interference at home. It is thought by some that home birth after caesarean may lead to…
Six principles for effectively managing your research project
Dr Sara Wickham offers six tips for managing your research project. What to keep, what to do with it, and how often to remove the cat from your in-basket…
The induction decision: what do women want?
What do women want when it comes to the induction decision? Dr Sara Wickham investigates research which shows that it’s more complex than we might think.