Possible reactions for mother and baby:
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Usually leads to a shorter labour. |
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Labour intensifies more rapidly with the stronger, longer contractions starting sooner. A delay in the release of endorphins for the woman can make her unprepared for the pain, as she has not experiencing the natural process of a labour starting gradually and building in intensity. |
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Possibly needing pain relief sooner, unless the woman can 'hold out' for up to an hour after labour starts for her endorphins to be released. |
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Possible overstimulation (tonic uterine action) of the uterus, which can lead to the baby becoming distressed. |
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Continuous fetal monitoring can limit the woman's movement and activity, as well as natural forms of pain relief such as baths or showers. |
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Increased risk of the baby being jaundiced. |
Information sources
Tan BP, Hannah ME. Oxytocin for prelabour rupture of membranes at or near term (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2001. Oxford: Update Software.
Tan BP, Hannah ME. Prostaglandins versus oxytocin for prelabour rupture of membranes at or near term (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2001. Oxford: Update Software.