Induction of labor
Induction of labor is a medical procedure that stimulates uterine contractions during pregnancy before labor begins naturally. It is a common practice in obstetrics that can be performed for various medical and non-medical reasons.
Reasons for Induction of Labor[edit | edit source]
The induction of labor is often performed when continuing the pregnancy could pose a risk to the health of the mother or the baby. Some common reasons include:
- Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia
- Gestational diabetes
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid)
- Post-term pregnancy (more than 42 weeks)
- Cholestasis of pregnancy
- Intrauterine fetal demise
Methods of Induction[edit | edit source]
There are several methods used to induce labor, including:
- Membrane sweeping
- Artificial rupture of membranes
- Prostaglandin E2
- Oxytocin (Pitocin)
- Misoprostol (Cytotec)
- Foley catheter
Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]
While induction of labor is generally safe, it does carry some risks, such as:
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Induction of labor is a common procedure that can help ensure the safety of the mother and baby in certain situations. However, it is not without risks and should only be performed when the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
