Sometimes birth doesn’t go as planned, and medical options like induction of labour or a caesarean section may be recommended.

In this video, our team explains how induction of labour works, the different stages involved, and what you can expect if induction becomes part of your birth story. When you give consent for an induction, it’s important to know that every experience is different, but most people will go through the main steps we discuss here.

Even if you’re not planning an induction or caesarean birth right now, labour can change at any time. Knowing your options ahead of time can help you and your birth partner feel informed, prepared, and reassured if plans change.

If you already know you’ll have a planned or elective induction or caesarean section, this information is still helpful. We also guide you through caesarean section recovery, so you know what to expect in the days and weeks after birth.