AL SHIFA CLINIC KARACHI

Syed Intisar Hussain

Often doctors opt for inducing labor at 39 weeks to reduce the risk of cesarean birth. Some women choose natural ways to induce labor instead of medication.

Everything You Should Know About Labor Induction

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Humza Khizer

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14 Labor Induction Myths Debunked

Introduction

There are a wide range of reasons why it might be essential to induce labor. Most frequently, it&rsquo;s because the delivery is overdue or there are some kinds of pregnancy problems. Despite the fact that in 2017, 43.1% of women expecting their first child had their labor induced, the process is still seen as an emergency intervention and hence requires understanding<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

&nbsp;

According to NHS Maternity Statistics, the rate of induction of labor in England has climbed from 21% (March 2010) to 34% (March 2021)<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. Under the guidance of a skilled gynecologist, labor induction is a safe procedure.

&nbsp;

This article will shed light on various myths and pertinent facts about elective or natural labor.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Understanding Myths Surrounding Labor Induction

<h5>Myth #1: Acupuncture Helps Induce Labor</h5>

Fact: <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/is-acupuncture-the-right-choice-for-you">Acupuncture</a> indeed has a noble past, and many individuals speak of its claimed advantages. Generally, acupuncture has no negative effects as long as it is administered by a trained professional who observes standard medical safety procedures. There isn&#39;t much information available, though, about this technique&#39;s efficacy in inducing labor. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #2: Eating Spicy Food Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: Well, spicy food does not directly contribute to induction. It&rsquo;s an old wives&#39; tale &ndash; since spicy food triggers diarrhea or otherwise excites intestines, it might in turn result in uterine contractions.

&nbsp;

A word of caution is needed here: This isn&#39;t an authorized way to induce labor. It&#39;s not a good idea to induce diarrhea because it might lead to dehydration. There&rsquo;s also a possibility of having a severe case of heartburn. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #3: Sex Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: Yes, in some circumstances, it might be helpful. Semen contains a minor quantity of prostaglandins, which are hormones that encourage cervical ripening. This coupled with female orgasms can bring on uterine contractions and the release of oxytocin, (sometimes referred to as the &quot;love hormone&quot;) during sex. However, experiencing a few contractions post sex doesn&#39;t mean it&rsquo;ll lead to regular contractions or a full-fledged labor.

&nbsp;

Moreover, several smaller studies suggest that having intercourse might not necessarily influence how quickly a pregnant woman goes into labor.

&nbsp;

A pregnant person may be hopeful that this strategy will succeed for a variety of reasons. However, it&#39;s vital to remember that not all pregnant women can have safe sex. If the doctor&rsquo;s advised against it and asked to maintain pelvic rest due to a placenta previa or another pregnancy problem, then the pregnant woman should refrain from having intercourse. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #4: Walking or Exercising Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: This is not likely because walking has little effect on prostaglandin release. The idea behind walking is that gravity, balance changes, and movement can assist in lowering the baby into the pelvis and accelerating labor. However, while studies suggest that walking is an excellent form of exercise for expectant mothers, there is no evidence of its role in inducing labor.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Regular walks help expecting mothers to feel good about themselves, assist them in getting the baby into the proper position for delivery, as well as enable them to develop strength for childbirth throughout their pregnancy (not just at the end!). Walking, or at the very least, staying upright whenever feasible, has been reported to speed up labor after it has begun. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #5: Pineapple Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: NO. Pineapple contains a protein-breaking enzyme called bromelain, which makes it a crucial component of numerous meat tenderizers.

&nbsp;

Bromelain is thought to break down the tissue in the cervix and soften it in order to prepare for delivery. This is the reason why it&rsquo;s used in labor induction. However, there is no solid scientific proof for this hypothesis.

&nbsp;

Although bromelain may be effective on meat, the human body does not respond well to it. Additionally, pineapple may induce heartburn during pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #6: It&rsquo;s Better To Wait till 41+ Weeks Than Opt For Elective Induction</h5>

Fact: False. The recent guidelines by&nbsp; NICE (National Institute for Health Care and Excellence) states that there is an increasing body of evidence that pregnancies that reach, or pass, 41 weeks are associated with a small increase in the risk of stillbirth and perinatal death and that induction of labor reduces this risk<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #7: Nipple Stimulation Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: Nipple stimulation releases oxytocin, which might result in contractions, and anything that initiates labor would help, even when it is not directly related to dilatation.

&nbsp;

Before attempting nipple stimulation, always consult a doctor. When carrying a high-risk pregnancy, it should be avoided because prolonged and intense nipple stimulation can cause stress to the fetus.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There are three options for nipple stimulation: manually, with a breast pump, or with a spouse. Just be careful not to overdo it; only massage one breast at a time for 5 minutes each. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #8: Eating Dates Helps&nbsp;</h5>

Fact: Yes, frequent consumption of dates provides the body with a good amount of nourishment. Dates possess the hormone potuchin, which serves to bind the uterus and its muscles in an effort to lessen postpartum bleeding. And then, there is the hormone oxytocin, which can encourage uterine muscular contractions to speed up labor<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>. However, please exercise moderation when it comes to food consumption. Please consult your doctor to know the safe amount of dates to consume. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #9: Castor Oil Induces Labor</h5>

Fact: No, and it&#39;s not advised. Castor oil can produce diarrhea and cramping in the intestines, which may make the uterus &quot;irritable&quot; . The cervix does not dilate as a result of these cramps, but these cramps can be exceedingly uncomfortable for the patients.

&nbsp;

Additionally, castor oil might induce feces release in an unborn child (meconium). Meconium can be consumed prior to birth when it combines with amniotic fluid. In rare cases, it might lead to pneumonia in the newborn. Please refrain from attempting castor oil! 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #10: Herbal Teas And Cohosh Induce Labor</h5>

Fact: It&#39;s untrue! Medical studies to support the safety of these products for mothers have not been conducted. Cohosh is one plant that contains phytoestrogens, which increases the risk of clotting in pregnant women and, therefore, should be avoided.

&nbsp;

Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, which is a precursor to prostaglandins, is found in evening primrose oil. It is said to aid in &quot;ripening the cervix.&quot; Although there is no medical proof that it is effective, there is also no evidence that it is hazardous. However, it is best to avoid it.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #11: A Second Labor Is Less Painful and Easy</h5>

Fact: It&#39;s true that successive labors tend to be shorter because the previous birth already stretched the cervix, pelvic floor muscles, and birth canal. But even if they last a shorter time, the discomfort is still there. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #12: A C-Section Is Necessary In Case Of Twins</h5>

Fact: A vaginal birth is entirely conceivable if there are no problems; it&rsquo;s true despite the fact that more than half of all twin births in the UK occur via Cesarean. A vaginal birth ought to be achievable if the first twin is lying head-down. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #13: Full Moon Helps Ease Labor Induction</h5>

Fact: According to an urban legend, more women have labor around full moons. There is absolutely no evidence to support the claim.&nbsp; Despite the absence of proof, many midwives still believe they will have a busy shift around the full moon! 
&nbsp;

<h5>Myth #14: Elective Induction Reduces Labor Time&nbsp;</h5>

Fact: The duration of labor varies from woman to woman and from pregnancy to pregnancy, but induced labor, which is started by using artificial hormones to trigger uterine contractions, can last for a few hours to a few days. It can take longer for first-time mothers or those less than 37 weeks pregnant. Before beginning the induction process, it is impossible to predict how the body will react to the medications being utilized. 
&nbsp;

Conclusion

Although it usually takes less time, labor induction can occasionally last 2-3 days. It takes longer if it's the first pregnancy. Eat very little -before visiting the hospital. Keep in mind that the medications used to induce labor may cause stomach discomfort and very severe contractions. Inform the doctor in case the pain is unbearable. Most of the time, a successful labor induction results in vaginal delivery. Don’t rely on myths. Just go along with the doctor's suggestions.

Key Points

<ul><li>When the doctor administers medication or punctures the water to initiate labor, this process is referred to as inducing labor (also known as labor induction).</li><li>Only medical needs should justify inducing labor. The best course of action is to wait for labor to begin naturally if the pregnancy has been a healthy one.</li><li>Ask about delaying labor induction until at least 39 weeks if the doctor advises, so the baby has time to grow within the womb.</li><li>Never believe in myths without any medical research evidence.</li></ul>

[1] Can I. Induction of Labour.

[2] Wilkes E, Gamble J, Adam G, Creedy DK. Reforming maternity services in Australia: Outcomes of a private practice midwifery service. Midwifery. 2015;31(10):935–40.

[3] guideline NG207 N. Inducing labour. 2021;

[4] Kuswati K, Handayani R. Effect of Dates Consumption On Bleeding, Duration, And Types of Labor. J Midwifery. 2019;4(1):85–91.

Neelam Asad

If you&#39;re a pregnant woman approaching your due date, you&#39;re probably wondering when and how you&#39;ll give birth. Under certain circumstances, your<a href="http://merisehat.pk"> healthcare provider </a>may suggest induction.&nbsp;

Labor induction is basically using medicine and/or other techniques to initiate labor rather than waiting for it to begin naturally. It is usually advised when either the mother or the infant has a condition that puts them at risk of complications before or during delivery. However, some women still choose elective induction without these specific conditions.&nbsp;

This article will describe what labor induction looks like, when and why it&#39;s suggested, and some of the concerns and advantages of the techniques used to induce labor.&nbsp;

Routine action refers to the use of medicine or other medical procedures to speed up labor. Some doctors used to routinely induce labor years ago. However, it is no longer routinely done unless a genuine medical requirement exists. Labor is normally allowed to take its natural course.&nbsp;

According to the WHO, labor induction rates are normally lower in low-and middle-income nations, but in some situations, they can be as high as those reported in high-income ones. 
&nbsp;

Understanding Labor Induction

The Bishop score was named after obstetrician Edward Bishop who devised this technique in 1964<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. Your doctor will use the Bishop score to determine how soon you&#39;ll give birth and whether to induce labor.

Based on a physical exam and ultrasound results, your doctor will evaluate the following factors:

<ul>
	<li>The extent of your cervical opening (dilation)</li>
	<li>How narrow your cervix is (effacement)</li>
	<li>How soft and flexible your cervix is</li>
	<li>Where your baby&rsquo;s head is located in the birth canal (fetal station)</li>
</ul>

A score of 8 or higher indicates that you&#39;re close to entering labor and that induction should go well. A lower score reduces your chances of induction. 
&nbsp;

The main difference between natural labor and induction is that induction is the use of drugs or medical methods to initiate your labor. Natural labor takes place on its own.&nbsp;The duration of labor without medical involvement varies. Some women give birth within a few hours of experiencing their first contractions. Others must wait several days before they are ready to give birth.When you undergo labor naturally, the muscles of your uterus begin to contract. Your cervix then opens, softens, and things to prepare for your baby's birth.Your cramps will become more common and severe during active labor. To fit your baby's head, your cervix expands from 6 cm to 10 cm. Your baby is born at the completion of this stage.

There are various situations and circumstances under which a doctor may suggest labor induction. And this is normally done if there is a concern about your or your baby&#39;s health.

For example:

<ul>
	<li>You&#39;re two weeks past your due date (more than 41-42 weeks into your pregnancy) and still haven&#39;t given birth; the risk of problems increases after 41-42 weeks</li>
	<li>Your placenta is detaching from the uterine wall (placental abruption)</li>
	<li>You have a uterine infection (chorioamnionitis)</li>
	<li>You haven&#39;t yet felt any contractions even though your water broke (preterm rupture of membranes)</li>
	<li>The level of your amniotic fluid is very low</li>
	<li>Your baby is not developing and growing as it is supposed to 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Your doctor may also suggest labor induction if you have specific medical conditions. For example:

<ul>
	<li>Hypertension (high blood pressure)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Gestational diabetes (high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy period and commonly disappears after delivery)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Renal (kidney) disease</li>
	<li>Pulmonary (lung) disease</li>
	<li>Cardiovascular (heart) disease</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

In these cases, induction can help relieve stress for both the mother and the baby. It can also help avoid complications that are more likely to appear near the end of a pregnancy.

Even if you don&#39;t have any of the above-mentioned conditions, doctors may sometimes recommend induction for women expecting it for the first time.&nbsp;This is because research shows that induction of labor at 39 weeks for women expecting for the first time can minimize the likelihood of needing a C-section. In the study, women induced at 39 weeks of pregnancy were also less likely to develop preeclampsia, a life-threatening illness of high blood pressure that can affect women and their kids after 20 weeks. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Induction Guidelines By AIMS</h5>

The AIMS guidelines suggest induction or a planned cesarean sooner than 41 weeks if you have any of the following complications<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>:

<ul>
	<li>You already have Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes mellitus, especially if your child is also expected to have a high birth weight&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You have high blood pressure that can&rsquo;t be maintained with medicines or developed pre-eclampsia (high BP during pregnancy)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You experience severe intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You are pregnant with twins or triplets&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

While it&#39;s typically better to let nature take its course, forcing labor may be a good option if there is an issue with your pregnancy or infant. Induction is also an option to avoid a C-section if you are in good health. According to a 2018 study, pregnant women who were induced at 39 weeks were less likely to require a C-section than those who waited<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

Consult with your doctor about inducing at 39 weeks if:

<ul>
	<li>You are expecting for the first time</li>
	<li>You are just carrying one child&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You and your child are healthy&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

C-sections can be dangerous sometimes, resulting in problems such as bleeding and infection. While surgical deliveries are required in some situations, they can potentially cause more issues with future pregnancies. 
&nbsp;

There are several methods for inducing labor. After your cervix has been examined, your doctor or midwife will advise you on the best course of action. A mix of various tactics might be necessary. You must give written permission for the procedure.

&nbsp;

<h5>1. Sweeping The Membranes</h5>

A vaginal examination involves the midwife or doctor moving their finger in a circle around your cervix. Prostaglandins, a hormone, should be released as a result of this action. This operation can be completed in the doctor&#39;s office and does not require hospitalization. There may be no need for additional procedures because this may be sufficient to initiate labor.

Risks: Although this is a straightforward and uncomplicated operation, it is not always successful. While it may feel a little unpleasant, bear in mind that it is not painful. 
&nbsp;

<h5>2. Oxytocin</h5>

You receive a drip in your arm that releases synthetic oxytocin to trigger your contractions. This process can go on for several hours. The baby&#39;s heart rate may be impacted when contractions come too quickly. This can be managed by decreasing the drip or being given another medication.

Risks: Firstly, compared to natural labor, oxytocin may cause more painful, frequent, and powerful contractions, increasing the likelihood that you&#39;ll need pain medication as well. Secondly, with the drip in your arm and the fetal monitor wrapped around your abdomen, you won&#39;t be able to move about very much. 
&nbsp;

<h5>3. Artificial Rupture Of Membranes (&#39;Breaking Your Water&#39;)</h5>

A little hook-shaped object is inserted into your vagina by your doctor or midwife to create a hole in the membrane sac containing the amniotic fluid. This will exert more pressure on your cervix from the baby&#39;s head, which could be enough to induce labor. Additionally, many women will require oxytocin to trigger their contractions.

Risks: ARM is not painful. However, it can be a little uncomfortable. An increased chance of bleeding, infection, and prolapsed umbilical cord also exists. 
&nbsp;

<h5>4. Prostaglandins</h5>

A synthetic version of the prostaglandin hormone is injected to soften your cervix and prepare your body for labor. A pessary and tape (similar to a tampon) that gradually releases the hormone during a period of 12-24 hours and a gel that can be applied multiple times (typically every 6-8 hours) are available for this purpose. Since prostaglandin gel feels closest to natural labor, it is often a preferred method of labor induction.&nbsp;

You need to lie down and stay in the hospital after administering the prostaglandins. You could also need ARM or oxytocin to stimulate the contractions if your water hasn&#39;t broken.

Call your midwife or doctor immediately when your water breaks or you begin to have pain. Consistent contractions are spaced at 5-minute intervals for your first baby or 10 minutes apart for subsequent births because these are both indications that labor has started.

Risks: Some women report that their vagina is sore after using the prostaglandin gel. Other women report experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. There is no indication that prostaglandin induction is more painful than natural labor. In rare instances, the contractions may be too severe and could slow the baby&#39;s heart rate. However, you can manage this by receiving another medication or getting rid of the pessary. Lastly, if you experience bleeding or notice that your baby is moving less, you should contact your doctor or midwife immediately. 
&nbsp;

<h5>5. The Cervical Ripening Balloon Catheter</h5>

A little tube with an attached balloon is put into your cervix to serve as a cervical ripening balloon catheter. Saline is used to fill the balloon, which exerts pressure on your cervix and forces it to dilate. It is kept for almost 15 hours after another cervical examination is conducted.

Call your midwife or doctor immediately when your water breaks or you begin to have pain. Consistent contractions are spaced at 5-minute intervals for your first baby or 10 minutes apart for subsequent births because these are both indications that labor has started. Also, if you are utilizing a cervical ripening balloon catheter, you might require ARM or oxytocin.

Risks: Although it won&#39;t hurt, inserting the catheter can be slightly unpleasant. If, at any stage, you start bleeding or your baby starts to move less, you should immediately notify your doctor or midwife. 
&nbsp;

You will enter the hospital&#39;s maternity ward if induction is necessary. You can induce labor by placing a tablet (pessary) or gel into your vagina. Starting labor may take some time, especially if pessaries or gels are needed to soften the cervix (the neck of the uterus).

Typically, you&#39;ll spend the time waiting at the hospital&#39;s maternity ward. After 6 hours, if you haven&#39;t experienced any contractions, you might be given another tablet or gel.

A controlled-release pessary injected into your vagina may take up to 24 hours to take effect. After 24 hours, if you are still not experiencing contractions, you might be given another dose. To hasten labor, a hormone drip may be required. Even then, it may take up to 48 hours to go into labor, but everything should go according to plan once it does. 
&nbsp;

<h5>What Does Labor Induction Feel Like?</h5>

Sweeping the membranes can be a little painful or uncomfortable, although it usually only takes a minute or so. It is unpleasant to have your water broken. You may feel a tug, then a warm drip or gush of fluid. Prostaglandin may also cause severe cramps. Contractions usually are more frequent and regular with oxytocin than in natural labor. You may continue to experience severe cramping and spotting for the next day or two.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>What Happens If Labor Does Not Take Place Even After Induction?</h5>

Induction does not always go smoothly, and labor may not begin. Your midwife and doctor will go through all of your options with you. They will evaluate your health and your baby&#39;s health, and you may be offered another induction or a cesarean section.

&nbsp;

Labor induction involves a number of risks, including:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Failed Induction</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

If the techniques used do not result in a vaginal birth within 24 hours, the induction may be regarded as a failure. In such circumstances, a C-section may be required.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Low Fetal Heart Rate</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

The drugs used to induce labor, such as oxytocin or prostaglandin, may cause the uterus to contract excessively. This can reduce the baby&#39;s oxygen supply and lower the baby&#39;s heart rate.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Infection</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Some labor induction techniques, such as rupturing the membranes, may increase the risk of infection for both mother and baby. The longer the interval between membrane rupture and delivery, the greater the chances of infection.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Uterine Rupture</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

This is an uncommon but dangerous condition in which the uterus rips along the scar line from a previous C-section or any significant uterine surgery. Sometimes, uterine rupture can happen in women who have never had uterine surgery before. To avoid potentially deadly complications, an emergency C-section is required and the uterus may need to be removed.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Bleeding After Delivery</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Labor induction increases the chance that the muscles of the uterus will not appropriately contract after birth, which might result in severe bleeding after delivery.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Important!</h5>

Labor induction is not for everyone. It might not be possible if:

<ul>
	<li>The placenta is obstructing the cervix (placenta previa)</li>
	<li>Your baby is lying sideways (transverse lie) or buttocks first (breech)</li>
	<li>You have an active genital herpes infection</li>
	<li>You&#39;ve undergone a C-section previously or have had a major uterine surgery in the past.&nbsp;If you have had a C-section and are in labor, your doctor will probably advise you to avoid certain drugs to lessen the risk of uterine rupture.</li>
	<li>Umbilical cord prolapse occurs, i.e.,&nbsp;the umbilical cord slips down in front of the baby after the waters have broken. The cord can then come through the open cervix (entrance of the womb). It usually happens during labor but can occur when the waters break before labor starts.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Even outside of a medical indication, a lot of pregnant women talk to their doctor about the likelihood of elective induction. This option may be preferred for a variety of reasons, including:

<ul>
	<li>
	It is easy to plan
	</li>
	<li>
	Knowing what to expect can assist in lowering anxiety
	</li>
	<li>
	Pregnancy can feel like it&rsquo;s taking a lot of time beyond 39 weeks, and it can be stressful for a variety of different reasons
	</li>
</ul>

Note: If you are at 39 weeks of pregnancy and are concerned about elective induction, discuss it with your doctor. Although elective induction has many advantages, it is also important to be aware of the complications.

&nbsp;

Before you have an induction, there is still much to DO besides medical matters.

&nbsp;

<h5>1. Plan Daycare&nbsp;</h5>

If you have other children at home, make sure they have a safe place to go. The father needs to know the drill while you&#39;re at the hospital.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>2. Things to Prepare Before Baby</h5>

<ul>
	<li>
	Get ready for the baby.&nbsp;Be prepared that the newborn will take a lot of your energy and time. You might spend many sleepless nights. Set up a corner or get a rocking chair where you can sit comfortably to relieve your tired back.
	</li>
	<li>Get the car seat ready.&nbsp;The car seat is one item you MUST HAVE when you leave the hospital, so make sure to load it up and make sure you know how to use it.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<h5>3. Prepare For Postpartum Care</h5>

<ul>
	<li>Buy effective absorbent pads so you won&#39;t leak during naps or sleep. In the beginning, you will bleed, and retaining your urine may also be difficult. Some women prefer washable underwear, too; it&rsquo;s a personal choice. However, a few packs of heavier pads can always come in handy even when you&#39;re not bleeding as much.</li>
	<li>You have the opportunity to pack your things very methodically &ndash; not just the labor bag, but also a dad bag, a baby bag, and a postpartum bag. Your labor bag, in particular, can have a few items to help you pass the time as labor begins slowly after an induction. Also, it may take some time before you enter active labor. And if this is your first child, it may take even longer.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<h5>4. Take Time For You!</h5>

<ul>
	<li>
	It will be worthwhile if you can obtain a good night&#39;s rest the night before your induction.&nbsp;
	</li>
	<li>
	If you&#39;re feeling worried and unable to control your thoughts, consult your doctor for some safe anti-anxiety medications.&nbsp;
	</li>
	<li>
	Consider taking a long stroll before night to help you relax.
	</li>
	<li>
	A prenatal massage would be lovely.
	</li>
	<li>
	Listen to a soothing meditation!
	</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

baby&#39;s health, inducing labor is advisable. Women who are expecting for the first time and have reached 39 weeks may choose to have an induction outside of these circumstances. Before deciding on an induction, explore the advantages and disadvantages of the different methods with your doctor. Doing this allows you to get all the data you require to decide what is best for you and your unborn child. 
&nbsp;

<ul><li>A mother and her unborn child are more likely to experience problems during labor when certain conditions exist and a healthcare professional may advise labor induction in those cases.</li><li>Induction of labor at 39 weeks may reduce the chance of cesarean section in first-time pregnancies, even in the absence of pregnancy problems.</li><li>In order to make the best choice for you and your baby, reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of inducing labor with your healthcare professional can be helpful.</li></ul>

[1] Kolkman DGE, Verhoeven CJM, Brinkhorst SJ, Van Der Post JAM, Pajkrt E, Opmeer BC, et al. A systematic review of the Bishop score as a predictor of labor induction success. Am J Perinatol. 2013;30(08):625–30.

[2] Can I. Induction of Labour.

[3] Grobman WA, Caughey AB. Elective induction of labor at 39 weeks compared with expectant management: a meta-analysis of cohort studies. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2019;221(4):304-310. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2019.02.046