From “Disappointing” to “Fantastic”: Patient Experiences With Labor Induction [02OP

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: While over 20% of deliveries in the U.S. involve labor induction, there is a dearth of evidence regarding patient perceptions of their experiences and preferences about the process of care. We conducted postpartum qualitative interviews to elucidate women's expectations and experiences of the labor induction process. METHODS: We recruited women who underwent labor induction during their most recent delivery from our hospital's postpartum ward, aiming to enroll equal numbers with vaginal and cesarean deliveries. We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews within two months of delivery. Research questions included expectations and lived experiences of the labor induction process, side effects and health outcomes of concern, reflections on personal tolerance of different interventions, and thoughts about an ideal process. RESULTS: From April-September 2018, we interviewed 36 women; 18 with a vaginal delivery and 18 with a cesarean delivery. The labor induction process involved a wide range of experiences, from unexpected, exhausting, stressful, overwhelming, and frustrating, to fast, smooth, and simple. Preliminary data show that women often perceived their induction to be longer than they expected. The medical intervention with the most adverse opinions was the Foley balloon catheter. Women's concerns regarding side effects and the need for intrapartum cesarean delivery largely centered on the health of their baby. CONCLUSION: Women's experiences with the overall process of labor induction, as well as specific medical interventions, influence their perceptions of quality of care during labor and delivery. Patient education, management of expectations, and shared decision-making throughout the process may improve patient experience and satisfaction.