What also concerns me are the questionable criteria used to recommend induction. The majority of women in Australia are either induced electively, or it is recommended for "post-dates". Most hospitals consider "post-dates" to be greater than 7 days over the due date, and do not take into consideration the condition of the baby, placental function, the certainty of dates and the previous menstrual cycle, or indeed the growing body of research that suggests that the way we calculate the due date is flawed, moreso in some ethnic groups than in others.
As eloquently outlined by Hoobley, the risks are so significant - and then roll in the risks inherent with a caesarean section, which is considerably more likely as the outcome of an induction - and you can see why many more women might opt out if given the opportunity to give a truly informed consent.
Gabi, good on you for taking the time to seek out this information.
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