Labor Induction

Abstract

Introduction: Induction of labor is the process of artificially stimulating uterine contraction after the fetus has reached viability and before the spontaneous onset of labor for accomplishing vaginal delivery. It is a common obstetric procedure that is primarily indicated in the presence of complications that put continuing of pregnancy at risk. Its global rate is around 20% with great variation across regions. The most common indications are: postterm pregnancy, hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, pre-labor rupture of membrane, intrauterine growth restriction, intrauterine fetal death, abruption placenta, fetal congenital anomalies, and other medical disorders. Despite its huge significance in preventing neonatal and maternal mortality and morbidity, induction of labor by itself has its own risks and complications compared to spontaneous labor, including a potential of failure to progress, leading to cesarean birth and its complications. When deciding undertaking induction of labor and after fulfilling the requirements for induction, the next step will be deciding which methods will be used to achieve it. Induction could be done medically, surgically, or both depending on the indication and other conditions.