What is induction of labor ?
Induction of labor is a method in which uterine contractions that do not occur on their own are stimulated. Although induction of labor is not dangerous, doctors do not perform it until the 39th week of pregnancy .
Why induction of labor?
Induction of labor is done according to the condition and condition of the pregnant woman, including conditions such as gestational diabetes, bleeding, preeclampsia and various heart complications.
When the bladder does not rupture and labor does not occur naturally, labor is induced. This method is also used for delivery if the doctor determines that the placenta is defective.
When one or two weeks have passed since the birth but the mother is still pregnant. Experts do not recommend waiting longer than this. Excessive waiting can be dangerous for both mother and baby. For example, the placenta may not be doing its job well in delivering nutrients to the baby. There is also a risk of stillbirth and serious problems for the baby.
The bladder ruptures but it is not yet time to give birth. In this case, labor is induced to prevent the infection from reaching the uterus and baby
The mother has preeclampsia, a serious illness that can endanger the mother’s health and restrict blood flow to the baby.
The mother has a history of stillbirth
Risks and complications of induction of labor
Is induction of labor dangerous for the fetus ?
Induction of labor is a safe method and naturally does not pose a risk to the fetus, but it has side effects that lead to fetal stress .
While induction of labor is safe and secure, it can have risks that may vary depending on the methods used and the mother’s condition. Oxytocin, prostaglandins, or nipple stimulation can sometimes lead to frequent, strong, and unusual contractions, which can put stress on the baby.
In rare cases, oxytocin, prostaglandins cause premature placental abruption or even uterine rupture. Rupture of the uterus is very rare for women who have not had a cesarean section or any uterine surgery.
In what cases should induction of labor not be performed?
Examinations show that the baby should be born quickly or that it may not tolerate uterine contractions.
When the pair is on the road
The baby is in a transverse position, ie it is not born from the head
The mother has more than one cesarean section
If the mother has already had a traditional cesarean section, it means that the uterine incision is vertical and she already has a uterine surgery such as myomectomy (removal of uterine fibers).
In twin pregnancies, especially when the first baby is in a transverse position, and in multiple pregnancies
The mother has an active genital infection
Induction of labor and doctors’ advice
What do doctors recommend for induction of labor?
Researchers warn that children born to mothers who gave birth by induction or stimulation are at higher risk for autism .
In one study, researchers looked at the type of delivery and educational status of 625,000 children, 5,500 of whom had autism. Compared to children born without induction of labor, children born with induction of labor were 25% -10% more likely to develop autism. Of course, this effect was greater in boys than girls.
The benefits of induction of labor, especially in the prevention of meconium aspiration syndrome, should not be overlooked. They believe that these findings should not preclude standard care until more information is available.
