It is done by placing a amniohook (looks very similar to a long crochet hook) inside the vagina during a vaginal exam and scratching the bag until it ruptures.
Drawbacks to this can include:
- Increased risk of infection
- Lack of cushion for the baby's head
- Increased intervention, and limited mobility
There are other ways to speed labor, including walking, nipple stimulation, position changes, etc.
Amniotomy may also be used as an induction technique.
Photo © Robin Elise Weiss
