What You Need to Know about Oxytocin to Start or Advance Labour

Oxytocin is a hormone that is produced naturally by the body during labour to make the uterus contract. It is also available as a medication that can be given to start or speed up labour. The “Oxytocin to Start or Advance Labour: 5 Questions to Ask” handout is now available. It describes the benefits and risks of oxytocin and can help pregnant individuals and their support person have conversations with their health care team.

SafeMedicationUse.ca received a report from a person who was given oxytocin without their knowledge. After being in labour for more than 12 hours, they asked for an epidural to help with pain relief and sleep. Upon waking up later, they noticed that the nurse was adding oxytocin into the IV line. The medication caused the baby to become distressed, and a cesarean section was required.

• Read through “Oxytocin to Start or Advance Labour: 5 Questions to Ask“ handout to learn more about this medication.
• Talk to your doctor and/or midwife before the expected delivery about the benefits and risks of, as well as the need for, oxytocin. Continue to ask questions if anything is unclear, including during the delivery.
• Learn how you and your baby will be monitored. Your contractions, blood pressure, and heart rate will be checked regularly. The baby’s heart rate will also be closely followed if you receive oxytocin.

This newsletter was developed in collaboration with patients and families.

Learning from consumer reports is shared with health care providers through ISMP Canada publications.