Don’t proceed to induction of labour before 39 weeks of gestation if appropriate maternal or fetal indications are lacking.

Don’t proceed to induction of labour before 39 weeks of gestation if appropriate maternal or fetal indications are lacking.

Type of practice

Other treatments

Age

Adult

Topic Area

Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatal Medicine

Induction of labour implies the medicalization of a physiological event and can cause some adverse effects as prolonged latent phase of labour and increased blood loss. Therefore induction is indicated only when the pregnancy continuation may involve a real danger to the fetus or to the mother. The term induction of labour does not increase the risk of cesarean section.
In the prolonged pregnancies induction must not be offered before 41+3 weeks of gestation but within 42+0 weeks or in case of term pregnancy with isolated oligohydramnios if AFI (Amniotic Fluid Index) is less than 50 mm or maximum pocket less than 20 mm after oral hydration with 2000 ml.

Sources

1. Vrouenraets FP et al. Bishop score and risk of cesarean delivery after induction of labour in nulliparous women. Obstet. Gynecol 2005;105:690-697.
2. Wood S et al. Does induction of labour increase the risk of cesarean section? A systematic review and meta-analysis of trials in women with intact membranes. BJOG. 2014;121:674-685.
3. Induction of labor : Evidence based Clinical Guideline N 9 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists July 2008.
4. Rossi AC et al. Perinatal outcome of isolated oligohydramnios at term and post term pregnancy: a sistematic review of literature with meta-analysis. J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2013 169(2)149-54.

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Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.