In obstetrics, artificial starting of the childbirth process by puncturing the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus or by administering a drag (oxytocin) to stimulate contractions of the muscles of the uterus. Labor may be induced to speed child¬ birth in cases of maternal or fetal distress, or electively (e.g., to avert the possibility of a woman delivering outside of a hospital).
The use of artificial methods to start labor intentionally. In general, induction is indicated when continuation of the pregnancy represents a significant risk to the mother, fetus, or both. This is especially true if the pregnancy has gone beyond term; the mother has developed an illness due to the pregnancy, such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure brought on by pregnancy); the fetus is endangered or has died; or the mother has a preexisting health condition that makes induction safer than continuing the pregnancy.
The use of pharmacological, mechanical, or operative interventions to initiate labor or to assist the progression of a previously dysfunctional labor. Induction may be considered when the risks of expectant management outweigh the benefits, placing the fetus and/or the mother in jeopardy. Among the more common indications are preeclampsia or eclampsia, premature rupture of membranes, fetal compromise, maternal medical diseases, chorioamnionitis, intrauterine fetal demise, postdate pregnancy, as well as some psychosocial factors. Contraindications include placenta previa, vasa previa, umbilical cord prolapse, history of classic uterine incision, and transverse fetal lie, as well as many relative contraindications.