Labor Induction Drugs: What You Need to Know

Monica Pineider
Aug 7
5 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Labor not starting naturally? Doctors may use labor induction drugs. But induced labor has disadvantages. What induction medications are used? Are there pills to start labor? Let's explore.

Close-up of two slices of bread topped with colorful sprinkles; one with blue and white, the other with pink and white. Bright, textured scene.

What Are Labor Induction Drugs?

Labor induction drugs are medications that can start labor artificially. Typically, labor begins naturally when the body is ready. But in some cases, doctors use induction drugs to help start or speed up the process.

These medications can be beneficial when medical concerns arise. Sometimes, labor doesn’t start on its own. Induction can help in these situations.

Induction can be necessary for several reasons. It can be helpful when the pregnancy goes past the due date. Sometimes, it is essential to protect the health of the mother or the baby.

Labor induction drugs can include medications or other methods. Hormone treatments or mechanical devices are examples of different methods.

Natural methods, like acupuncture and acupressure, are also sometimes used to encourage the body to begin labor. These holistic approaches may help stimulate uterine activity or prepare the cervix, though effectiveness can vary from person to person.

Also READ - Ultimate Guide to Acupuncture Points and Charts

Why Is Labor Induced?

Labor may need to be induced for various reasons. Common reasons include:

Overdue pregnancy: A pregnancy that goes past 42 weeks can cause complications.

Preeclampsia: A condition with high blood pressure that threatens the health of the mother and baby.

Infection: If the mother has an infection, induction may be necessary.

Fetal growth problems: If the baby is not growing properly or is in distress, your doctor may schedule an induction.

Water breaking without contractions: If the amniotic sac breaks but labor doesn’t begin, induction can help.

Induction drugs help start contractions or make them stronger. They help the cervix open and allow labor to begin. But there are also risks to consider.

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Types of Labor Induction Drugs

There are different induction medications that can start or speed up labor. Each drug works differently. They may be used together, depending on the situation.

Some common types of induction drugs include:

1. Prostaglandins

These hormones soften and thin the cervix.
Prostaglandin medications are available as a gel, insert, or pill.
They help prepare the cervix for labor.

2. Oxytocin (Pitocin)

Oxytocin is the most common induction drug.
It is a hormone that triggers contractions.
It is given through an IV. It makes the uterus contract and starts labor.

3. Cervidil

Cervidil is a type of prostaglandin medication.
The gyno places it inside the cervix to help soften and thin it.
It can be used with or without other drugs.

4. Misoprostol

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin pill.
It softens the cervix and starts contractions.
It can be taken orally or inserted into the vagina.

The type of drug used depends on the condition of the cervix, the baby’s health, and the doctor’s recommendation.

Close-up of induction medications — pills used to start labor

Induction Medications: How They Work

Induction medications work by helping the body start labor. They can cause the cervix to ripen or induce contractions.

For example, prostaglandins like Misoprostol or Cervidil help prepare the cervix. These labor induction drugs soften and thin the cervix, also known as "cervical ripening." Once the cervix is ready, it can begin to open up for labor.

Oxytocin (Pitocin) is often used after the cervix is ready. It is given through an IV. Oxytocin causes contractions to start. These contractions are like natural labor contractions.

Each woman may respond differently to induction drugs. Some may experience contractions quickly. Others may take longer to respond. Sometimes, women may require multiple doses of medication.

If your induction has already been scheduled, you may consider trying acupuncture for labor induction. A few studies suggest it can successfully help to encourage labor naturally.

Also READ - How To Safely Promote Labour Induction, Pain Relief & Calmness With Acupuncture

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Pills to Start Labor: Are They Effective?

Pills to start labor contain prostaglandins, like Misoprostol. They can be effective in softening the cervix and beginning contractions. However, they don’t work for everyone.

The effectiveness of pills to start labor depends on several factors:

The condition of the cervix. Is it ripe or not?
The position of the baby.
The overall health of the mother.

In many cases, doctors suggest labor pills when the cervix is not ready for labor. They help ripen the cervix, allowing it to begin dilating. However, if the cervix is already soft and has dilated, other methods, such as oxytocin, may be used.

Some women experience side effects with induction pills. These can include nausea, diarrhoea, or too many contractions. If contractions are too frequent or intense, it may cause distress for the baby. Doctors closely monitor the mother to ensure her safety.

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Woman in visible pain holding a hospital bed, illustrating the discomfort and emotional strain associated with the disadvantages of induced labour.

Disadvantages of Induced Labour

Labor induction drugs can be helpful in some situations. But there are disadvantages of induced labour to consider. Some of the disadvantages include:

Increased risk of C-section: Induced labor can sometimes lead to complications. This may increase the chances of needing a C-section.
Longer labor: Induced labor can sometimes last longer than natural labor.
Stronger contractions: Induced contractions tend to be more intense. This can make labor more painful.
Uterine hyperstimulation: This happens when contractions are too frequent or too strong. It can cause distress to the baby.
Infection: Inducing labor can increase the risk of infections if the membranes are ruptured for too long before labor starts.

Your healthcare provider should carefully weighed these risks before deciding to induce labor.

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When Should Labor Be Induced?

Labor should only be induced when it is medically necessary. Some common reasons to induce labor include:

Overdue pregnancy: If a pregnancy extends beyond 42 weeks, it can lead to complications.
Health complications: Conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes may require induction.
Fetal distress: If the baby shows signs of distress, induction can help deliver the baby quickly.
Changes in heart rate: It’s important to monitor the normal heartbeat of a pregnant woman, which typically ranges from 70 to 90 beats per minute, but may increase up to 100 bpm due to higher blood volume and hormonal changes. During labor or induction, both the mother’s and baby’s heart rates are carefully monitored to ensure safety.

Only the doctor should decide about labor induction, considering the health of both mother and baby.

The Risks of Labor Induction Drugs

Like all medications, labor induction drugs carry risks. These risks include:

Increased pain: Induced contractions can be stronger and more painful than natural contractions.
Need for additional interventions: Sometimes, women may need other interventions, such as epidurals or forceps delivery.
Uterine rupture: Although rare, induced labor can increase the risk of uterine rupture, especially in women who have had a C-section before.

It is essential to discuss these risks with your doctor. Together, you can make the best decision for your labor.

Conclusion

Labour induction drugs are an essential tool in modern medicine. They can help start labor when needed. But they come with risks and considerations.

Induction medications like prostaglandins and oxytocin are widespread. Pills like Misoprostol can help ripen the cervix. However, induced labor may also lead to complications like a longer labor or a higher risk of C-sections.

Before deciding on labor induction, it’s essential to talk to your doctor. The goal is to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby. Understanding the process and the risks can help you make the best decision for your labor and delivery.