When a baby is full-term but hasn't started labor or shown any signs of labor, or when the pregnant woman is in early labor (e.g., the cervix is dilating but uterine contractions aren't strong enough for a successful delivery), induction of labor is crucial. Induction is a method to help the mother give birth and assist the baby's safe delivery.
Not all pregnant women need to have labor induced. Clinically, doctors generally recommend induction in the following situations to ensure the health of the fetus:
After the due date, the placenta's function deteriorates and the amniotic fluid gradually decreases. If the baby stays in the mother's body for too long, it will increase the risks.
If the amniotic sac ruptures but there are no other signs of labor, such as the fetus not descending into the pelvic cavity, the fetus has a higher chance of infection.
If a pregnant woman has gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, or if the fetus is too large or even if the fetus is unstable, doctors will recommend inducing labor.
Doctors will advise pregnant women to open their legs and bend their knees, ensuring their knees do not extend beyond their toes, in a squatting position, and slowly squat down and then stand up. This method aims to increase head engagement and stimulate cervical ripening, and is generally suitable for pregnant women without health problems.
During labor induction, the doctor will decide whether to use vaginal suppositories or injections to induce labor, depending on the condition of the mother's cervix. If the cervix is not mature enough, the doctor will also use medication to relax the cervix and then use an injection to accelerate uterine contractions.
If the pregnant woman's water does not break, the doctor will use professional instruments to artificially rupture the amniotic sac, simulating the situation of amniotic fluid being released during natural childbirth, and speeding up the labor process.
The doctor will first assess whether labor induction is necessary, and explain the process and associated risks in detail. A series of examinations will be conducted to determine if the pregnant woman needs induction. If induction is required, the doctor will attach a fetal heart rate monitor to the pregnant woman and perform an internal examination to confirm the dilation of the fetus and cervix.
If painless childbirth is desired, the doctor will administer an epidural before using labor-inducing drugs.
After evaluation by a doctor, labor-inducing drugs will be used. Generally, the cervix is relaxed with medication, followed by labor-inducing injections to help the uterus contract, usually starting with a low dose.
If labor does not progress as expected after the use of labor-inducing drugs, the doctor will perform artificial rupture of membranes to accelerate the progress of labor.
Inducing labor is to ensure the health of the pregnant woman and the fetus, and is not a serious problem. Therefore, pregnant women should stay relaxed and face it with a positive attitude.
The Center of Excellence in Medicine offers the following obstetric services:
Our obstetrics and gynecology specialist center boasts an experienced medical team and comprehensive facilities, dedicated to providing women with professional support in all aspects. We are committed to providing excellent and attentive professional services to meet the diverse needs of women. If you are interested in learning more about our services, including labor induction assessment, labor induction services, and other obstetric services, please contact us.
