Induction of labour and its feto-maternal outcome

Abstract

Over the past several decades, induction of labour has become a common obstetric procedure, with a universal goal to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and her newborn. Induction of labour is an iatrogenic initiation of uterine contractions in a pregnant woman after the age of fetal viability, who is not in labour to help her achieve a vaginal birth. This is done when risk of continuing the pregnancy either for the mother or for the fetus, exceeds the risk associated with induced labour and delivery. WHO recommends that induction should be performed with a clear medical indication and when expected benefits outweigh potential harms. The rate of induction varies by location as well as institution. According to an analytical study, it is generally less common in lower-income (4.4%-Africa and 12.1%-Asia) than higher-income countries (approx. 20%in UK and USA), except Sri Lanka (35.5%) and India (32%). In US it has increased from 9.5% in 1990 to 22.1% in 2004.