how does being induced work?

The other person is right that's exactly what they do. I hope they have also informed you of the risks of being induced. Being induced unnecessarily can increase your chances of a surgical birth. Please do some more research as you are in charge of your body and baby. Look into all your options and speak to other people instead of just doctors as they don't always have just your interest at heart.

Google natural birth and how to avoid a cesarean section.

Good luck and my thoughts are with you.

Let me know how it goes.

Induced labour is started by inserting a pessary or gel into the vagina, sometimes both are used. It may take a while, so expect a few days in the hospital, particularly if the cervix needs to be softened with more pessaries or gels.

Sometimes a hormone drip is needed to speed up the labour. Once labour starts, it should be normal. It can sometimes take 24-48 hours to get it started but the length of the labour itself cannot be determined, every woman is different. I delivered in 46 minutes, I have friends who went for 18+ hours and know of people who were in labour for more than 24 hours.

I am curious why this has not already been discussed with you.