New Labor Induction Guide Boosts Patient Control

A new labor induction guide for pregnant patients significantly boosts their sense of self-control and satisfaction. A randomized controlled trial at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) involving more than 200 patients found those who received the guide reported higher satisfaction levels than those who received standard verbal counseling.

The study analyzed postpartum survey data collected within a week of delivery. The goal of the OHSU labor guide is to improve patients' understanding of interventions and their risks and benefits. This low-cost intervention provides clear, accessible information during the induction process.

Evidence-based approach replaces unreliable online sources

OHSU clinicians faced increasing patient reliance on unreliable online sources for labor information. This led to widespread misinformation, confusion, and mistrust. Samuel Melville, M.D., a resident-physician in obstetrics and gynecology at OHSU, noted patients often arrive at induction with conflicting information and may consequently decline evidence-based care recommendations.

The OHSU Center for Women’s Health developed a labor guide handbook to provide accessible, evidence-based information. The guide uses plain language to explain interventions, timing, risks, and benefits across all stages of labor. It includes an introduction explaining the goals of labor management and why induction may be recommended.

Guide supports shared decision-making and reduces risks

The evidence-based tool is designed to empower patients and support shared decision-making. Fei Cai, M.D., assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology and the study's senior author, highlighted the guide’s accessibility and its role in facilitating these conversations.

By improving patient understanding of interventions and their associated risks and benefits, the guide aims to potentially reduce complications. These complications can include infection, hemorrhage, and emergency cesarean sections.

OHSU plans broader implementation and language adaptation

Clinician-researchers plan to implement the guide as OHSU’s standard of care across its labor and delivery unit. They also plan to adapt the guide into multiple languages to serve a broader patient population. The project received funding from the Ob/Gyn Mission Support Award, established in 2011, which supports protected faculty time for clinical care, education, research, and outreach.

OHSU now plans to implement the guide as standard care across labor and delivery units and adapt it into multiple languages.