Introduction: Childbirth is a complex biological, psychological, and social process. Its course is significantly influenced by psychological factors and the surrounding environment, which may either facilitate or impede the progression of labour. In modern obstetrics, medicalization has become increasingly prevalent, encompassing various routine interventions that may influence women’s childbirth experiences. Outpatient induction of labour, which is implemented in several developed countries for low-risk pregnant women, enables a less medicalized approach to childbirth, more individualized care, and greater involvement of women in decision-making regarding their birth. Purpose: The aim of this thesis is to analyse and compare women’s experiences with outpatient and inpatient induction of labour. The study examines the impact of outpatient induction of labour on women’s satisfaction, comfort, and overall childbirth experience, and compares the perceived safety, effectiveness, and acceptability of both approaches. Methods: A literature review of the past decade focusing on outpatient induction of labour, cervical ripening, women’s experiences, and satisfaction will be conducted in this thesis. The review will follow the PRISMA methodology. Only peer-reviewed articles published in English and retrieved from the databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library will be included. Results: 13 sources were included in the literature review. The results indicate that outpatient induction of labour is comparably safe and effective to inpatient care in carefully selected women with low-risk pregnancies. Women more frequently reported greater satisfaction, comfort, privacy, a sense of control, and partner support due to being able to stay in their home environment. Adequate information, the opportunity to make choices, and continuous accessibility of healthcare professionals also contributed significantly to a positive childbirth experience. The findings suggest that, with appropriate organisation, outpatient induction of labour could represent a safe and acceptable alternative to inpatient care. Discussion and conclusion: Outpatient induction can be a safe and more pleasant option for many women, provided that women are appropriately selected, care is well organised, and continuous access to professional support is ensured. Above all, it should remain a choice rather than a universal solution.
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