That when you are admitted you will not necessarily be taken to labour ward immediately after prosting gel/tablets if you need it. Sometimes it can take 3 doses to get you into labour which need to be spaced apart. The first 2 need to be at least 6 hours apart and if a third dose is needed it may need to be given a day later to give your body a rest.
The prostin gets the cervix soft and ready for labour. It does not always start labour which sometimes happens. You then need to have your waters broken in labour ward. That might start things off but usually you need a hormone drip to get contractions started, especially if this is your first baby.
If you are being induced for a non-urgent reason then women who have problems in their pregnancies, and those in labour will take priority. That could mean that you are ready to have your waters broken but the labour ward is full and has no room or midwife to look after you.
I have just had 2 very busy night shifts in labour ward and the inductions were delayed for 2 days - partly because they were unfavourable and partly because we were too busy.
We had some very complicated cases which meant that a couple women who wanted induced before their due date because they were 'uncomfortable'' could not be taken.
A full explanation was given with an option of going home and returning the following day. This was declined and the ward staff got constantly hassled.
I think if women understood what was involved more then perhaps they would be more patient when things don't go to plan.
Sorry for the rant but I was extremely annoyed by such a selfish attitude last night.