Context

Induction of labour is common, affecting up to 26% of women who give birth. Labour may be induced for a range of reasons, including maternal and fetal complications, although a proportion of inductions are performed in the absence of a recognised indication.1 Evidence-based guidelines recommend induction of labour for a range of pregnancy conditions, including post-term pregnancy.2 In most cases, a decision is made to induce labour when the balance of risk favours induction over expectant management.

There have been concerns that increasing rates of induction of labour may be contributing to higher rates of caesarean section. However, recent evidence suggests that this may not be the case.3–5 To date …