At Banner Health our goal is to work with you to create the best birthing experience possible. Part of that process may include labor induction. Rest assured that we are here to help you every step of the way and help prepare what to expect during a labor induction.
Labor induction, or inducing labor, is a medical procedure that uses medication or other methods to start labor.
Labor induction may be recommended if the health of the mother or baby is at risk. Reasons may include:
If labor is induced for non-medical reasons it is called an elective induction. Banner Health doctors are careful about elective inductions. We believe that, in most cases, it’s best for babies to be born as close to their due dates as possible.
Our doctors follow the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines. These guidelines outline the standards for elective inductions. Generally, you must be at 39 or more weeks of gestation, and your cervix must be soft and dilated.
There are several different methods used to induce labor.
While labor induction can often be successful without complications, studies have shown that inducing labor before your cervix is ready can increase several risks. These risks include:
If you have a successful vaginal delivery after induction, chances are there will be no risks for future pregnancies.
Be sure to talk with your doctor about labor induction and how it may affect your labor and delivery plan.