Ten Ways to a Positive Birth—Even If Your Labour Is Induced

Induction of labour can feel daunting—but with the right mindset, support and tools, it can be a calm, empowering journey. Here’s how to make it work for you:

1. Know why it’s being offered

Understanding the reason behind your induction (post‑dates, baby growth, blood pressure, etc.) helps you feel informed and in control. Your midwife or doctor should explain this clearly—never hesitate to ask questions.

2. Make a birth plan—and stay flexible

List your preferences (birth position, environment, relaxation tools) while acknowledging that things can change. A plan gives clarity and confidence—but adaptability keeps you centred.

3. Build your own oxytocin

Oxytocin—the “love” hormone—can help your body birth more smoothly. Bring candles, playlists, have your partner massage you, or photos of special events of places; dim the lights; use scents; cuddle with your birth partner. It’s about what helps you relax.

4. Keep moving

If you’re allowed, walk around the ward, sway, rock on a birth ball—movement helps encourage labour and gives you back a sense of agency.

5. Learn calming tools

From breathing to visualisation, hypnobirthing or mindfulness—these methods give you tools to stay calm and focused. Our antenatal courses in Dorking, Surrey and pregnancy yoga classes in Dorking, Surrey teach these in a supportive space.

6. Talk it through

Be open with your birth partner about what matters most to you. Having someone who knows your wishes can make all the difference on days when you’re tired or overwhelmed.

7. Know induction stages

Whether it’s a pessary, membrane sweep, gel or oxytocin drip—it’s helpful to know the process, what your body may feel, and what support you’re entitled to. Information can dispell fear.

8. Advocate for your needs

Ask for pain relief, breaks, food or to switch settings. Birth professionals are there to support—with gentle reminders or prompts, you can shape your care experience. Know which interventions you can decline or stop - this is covered in my Digital Positive Induction course. Get in touch for details.

9. Create a warm, welcoming environment

Bring meaningful items: your yoga mat, comfy clothes, affirmations cards, essential oils. These familiar things can make hospital feel more like home.

10. Welcome change

Remember: being induced is not a failure. It’s just one path that brought your baby into the world. Trust in your body, your baby, your resilience, and the powerful support around you.

What are the Induction Rates in the UK?

Induction is fairly common—about 29% of labours in England and Wales were induced in 2022–23, and across the UK around one in three women experience induction of labour.

At East Surrey Hospital (part of Surrey & Sussex NHS Trust), inductions are offered from after due date is passed. Read more about the Induction process at East Surrey here. At Epsom General Hospital, it’s also standard practice to offer induction in the late post‑date period. While exact local percentages aren’t always published publicly, these trusts follow national trends—so you can expect around a one in three chance.

How Birth & More Can Support your Positive Induction

• Antenatal courses in Dorking: Cover relaxation tools, birth physiology and choices—including induction options—so you’re fully prepared for any scenario

• Pregnancy yoga classes in Dorking: Builds strength, breath control and calm focus—perfect for labour preparation

• Continued support for all those in class: Post‑course check‑ins, partner involvement, and encouragement of self‑advocacy

• A dedicated Online Positive Induced Birth Course and Hypnobirthing scripts: get in touch for details.

Designing your experience, whether birth is spontaneous or induced, ensures it’s truly yours.

Trusted Wisdom Beyond Birth & More

We encourage you to also explore Dr Sara Wickham’s website—she’s a respected midwife, author and educator whose articles on evidence‑based practices and positive birth perspectives are brilliant.

Final Thoughts

Your birth has no “one right way”. Being induced doesn’t define your experience—how you prepare, advocate, and hold yourself does. With our antenatal courses, pregnancy yoga and personalised support, you’ll have confidence for whatever path unfolds.

If you’re thinking ahead—or already facing an induction—let’s talk about how we can customise your journey to be truly empowering. Get in touch for details and I look forward to supporting you.

Induced can be a positive experience with the right birth preparation.