Labor Induction: Care Instructions

Overview

If you pass your due date and your labor does not start on its own, your doctor or midwife may want to try to start (induce) labor. They may also suggest doing this for other reasons, such as if there are concerns about your or your baby's health. For example, it may be done if you have high blood pressure. Or it may be done if the placenta can no longer give enough support to the baby.

There are several ways to induce labor, such as using medicine or breaking the amniotic sac.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

When may your labor be induced?

Labor induction may be done if labor doesn't start on its own.

Labor may be induced when:

• Your pregnancy has gone 1 to 2 weeks past your expected due date.
• You have a problem that may harm your health or the health of your baby if you continue to be pregnant. Examples are high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and diabetes.
• Your water breaks, but labor does not start.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or midwife if you have questions about inducing labor.