Women's views and experiences of augmentation of labour with synthetic oxytocin infusion: A qualitative evidence synthesis

Oxytocin augmentation and neurotransmitters in prolonged delivery: An experimental appraisal

“…There are some guidelines about the use of OXT in labor, for example the European Guidelines [87] , but there are not international guidelines for OXT augmentation in dystocic and prolonged labor. The OXT may cause possible maternal complications, among these last one the pelvic floor hematoma [88] during OXT augmentation, according for Alòs-Pereñíguez [89] require an informed consent for OXT administration. Other studies are required to determine the alterations of OXT innervation in the uterus with OXT administration in PDD, therefore it is advisable a judicious use of OXT infusion in PDD, especially in scarred uterus [26] , [90] to avoid complications and medico-legal litigation [91] , [92] , [93] .…”

Inconsistent definitions of labour progress and over-medicalisation cause unnecessary harm during birth

“…A qualitative review was conducted of 25 studies from 14 middle and high income countries examining women’s experiences with oxytocin augmentation. Here, women indicated that decisions to augment labour are often made without their involvement and that oxytocin is routinely administered without their informed consent 45. This happens against a background of many women believing that oxytocin augmented labour is more painful.…”

“…This happens against a background of many women believing that oxytocin augmented labour is more painful. Notably, this is aligned with synthetic oxytocin’s lack of analgesic effects, which differs from endogenous oxytocin 4542. Conversely, a 2013 qualitative study among 140 community members in India’s Karnataka state, including women who had recently given birth and health providers, reported that high value was placed on pain during labour.…”

“…Furthermore, WHO’s current guidelines have been disseminated globally before pilot testing or timely post-implementation evaluation of effects, including unintended harms 38. Moreover, women and frontline healthcare providers must be sensitively included during creation and local adaptation of guidelines 3845…”

“…Here, women indicated that decisions to augment labour are often made without their involvement and that oxytocin is routinely administered without their informed consent. 45 This happens against a background of many women believing that oxytocin augmented labour is more painful. Notably, this is aligned with synthetic oxytocin’s lack of analgesic effects, which differs from endogenous oxytocin.…”