ABSTRACT

Induction of labor is the iatrogenic stimulation of uterine contractions before the onset of spontaneous labor to achieve vaginal delivery. It must be generally decided when the benefits of immediate delivery outweigh the risks of continuing the pregnancy for fetal and maternal health. In the recent years, the rate of elective induction of labour has risen dramatically throughout the world and, in fact, brings significant morbidity for both the mother and the fetus. Fewer than two thirds of women in whom labour induction is performed give birth without further interventions and, labour induction increases operative vaginal delivery and cesarean section rates, the possibility of postpartum bleeding, the need for blood transfusions, use of uterotonic agents and hysterectomy. Thus, predicting the success of labour induction and gaining precise knowledge about methods of labour induction is important in minimising associated morbidity. This review focuses on factors associated with the success of labour induction and methods of labour induction in light of recent guides.