June 6, 2021: SafeMedicationUse.ca - 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. Read more … | FrançaisView all SafeMedicationUse.ca Newsletters for consumers
