Many induced labours 'should be avoided'

International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Tuesday, 12th May 2009

A new study suggests there may not be sound medical grounds for using drugs or other measures to induce labour, it has been reported.

Research conducted by the University of Michigan, US, published in BJOG, found that evidence supporting such practices can only be found when the fetus has been gestating for 41 weeks or more, or when the mother's membrane breaks before labour.

The report suggests that when there is an abnormally-sized fetus, the existence of twins, a diabetes-suffering mother or low levels of amniotic fluid, induced labour may not be justified.

Dr Ellen Mozurkewich, the study's lead author, commented: "The best available evidence does not support routine inductions in many situations for which induction is currently being recommended to patients.

"More research is necessary to clarify the risks and benefits of induction in these situations."

Carol Sakala, director of programs at research and advocacy organisation Childbirth Connection, claimed that every week of gestation "counts in terms of brain and lung development".

"When there is no good reason to end pregnancy, mothers and babies benefit from waiting for labour to begin on its own," she added