Health care professionals' perceptions and experiences of labour induction - an integrative systematic review

This study aims to systematically synthesise available research on health care professionals' perceptions and experiences of induction of labour (IOL), in the context of rising IOL rates and evolving clinical guidelines.

An integrative systematic review was conducted according to Whittemore and Knafl's methodology, including five stages: problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, analysis, and presentation of results. Literature in English published during 2013-2025 was included. Three databases (PubMed, CINAHL with Full Text, and PsycInfo) were searched systematically for publications between January 2013 and November 2025.

Four qualitative, six quantitative and two mixed-methods articles from Australia, Germany, Great Britain, India, the Netherlands, Sweden and the USA met the inclusion criteria and were included in the synthesis. Three categories were identified: (1) Inter- and intraprofessional attitudes towards guidelines, indications, and timing of labour induction; (2) Professional approaches to managing labour induction; and (3) Variation in standard operating procedures and methods for labour induction. Differences in clinical experience, professional philosophy and local practice contributed to variation across categories, influencing attitudes towards IOL, decision making and information provision. Outpatient IOL was generally perceived positively, with reported benefits for women, companions and workload distribution, although organisational and safety-related challenges were described.

Health care professionals' perceptions and experiences of IOL vary widely and are shaped by professional roles and organisational contexts. Health care professionals highlight the importance of informed decision-making processes that integrate women's preferences and values. Further research is needed to support consistent, high-quality care for women undergoing IOL.