Women’s lived experiences of induction of labour in late- and post-term pregnancy within the Swedish post-term induction study – a phenomenological study

Abstract

Purpose There is a trend worldwide to induce pregnant women earlier. However, few studies have focused on women’s experiences. The aim was to gain a deeper understanding of women’s lived experiences of induction of labour in late- and post-term pregnancy. Methods Phenomenology with a reflective lifeworld approach was chosen as the method. Twelve women participating in a larger study in which women were randomized to either induction of labour in week 41 or to expectant management until week 42, were interviewed one to three months after giving birth. Results The essence is described as follows: labour becomes another journey than the intended one. The women adapted to this new journey by seeing the advantages and handing themselves over to the healthcare system, but at the same time something about giving birth could be lost. The result is further described by its four constituents: planning the unplannable, being a guest at the labour ward, someone else controlling the labour, and overshadowed by how it turned out. Conclusion Induced labour presents a challenge to maternity personnel to support the birthing woman’s normal progress, not to rush her through labour, and to involve her in the process.

Keywords

• induction of labour
• late-term pregnancy
• post-term pregnancy
• phenomenology
• swepis