What does it mean to induce labour?

Labor induction — also known as inducing labor — is the stimulation of uterine contractions during pregnancy before labor begins on its own to achieve a vaginal birth. A health care provider might recommend labor induction for various reasons, primarily when there's concern for a mother's health or a baby's health. One of the most important factors in predicting the likelihood of a successful labor induction is how soft and distended your cervix is.