Table 7 Outcomes of free-text response content analysis -changes in IOL uptake
From: Induction of labour during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national survey of impact on practice in the UK
Changes in IOL uptake | Women’s reluctance to IOL | “More reluctant for IOL and possibly more women requesting homebirth, due to partner visiting restrictions and fear of being alone on the antenatal ward” “Some women have declined, citing Covid as the reason, preferring to stay at home and await onset of labour.” “Potentially a few more wanting to wait until after 40 + 7 if they want a home birth (upto 40 + 14) to avoid hospital attendance. Only very small numbers though.” |
Partner restrictions impact OP uptake | “Partners cannot for IOL process which has caused concerns with the women” “Women do not want to undergo an IOL without the support of their birth partner whilst receiving cervical ripening on the antenatal ward. This has created a lot of challenges during the pandemic with visiting restrictions.” “Many women have asked to stay at home with their partner rather than being admitted to the hospital.” | |
Staying home or local | “More women wanting home birth and therefore avoiding IOL” “We are considering alternative methods of IOL - including mechanical at present, delayed by pandemic while other things are focus. Women are perceived as slightly more keen to have outpatient IOL” |