Women’s experiences with unexpected induction of labor: A qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: Induction of labor is the most common intervention in modern obstetrics and is a growing phenomenon worldwide. Research on women’s experiences with the induction of labor is scarce, especially on being unexpectedly induced. The purpose of this study is to explore women’s experiences with unexpected induction of labor. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study including 11 women who had undergone an unexpected induction of labor within the last three years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the period February–March 2022. Data were analyzed using systematic text condensation (STC). Results: The analysis led to four result categories. The decision to induce labor came as a surprise to the women, both for better and for worse. Information was not automatically provided and was often obtained through the women’s own efforts. Consent to the induction mainly took the form of a decision by healthcare personnel, and the birth was a positive experience during which the woman felt looked after and reassured. Conclusions: The women were very surprised when told they had to be induced and were unprepared for the situation. They received insufficient information, and several experienced stress from the time of induction up until they gave birth. Despite this, the women were satisfied with the positive birth experience, and they emphasized the importance of being looked after by empathetic midwives during childbirth.