Labor Induction Risks

The decision to induce labor when it is not moving quickly enough is complex and difficult. Mostly it depends on the in-utero development of the baby, as well as on the health of both mother and child. However, no procedure---especially in pregnancy and childbirth---is without risks that must be carefully considered.

Cesarean

• According to the California Pacific Medical Center, a major risk of labor induction is that it increases the probability of a Cesarean birth by 100% or more. Since inducing labor with hormone treatments essentially moves labor along before the body is prepared to, it may cause the opposite of the desired effect and slow the natural progression of labor.

Abruption & Rupture

• It is an unusual occurrence, but inducing labor can cause placental abruption. This is when the placenta detaches prematurely, either partially or totally, from the living-sustaining uterus. The uterus passes the placenta blood that is full of oxygen to keep the baby "breathing" and feeding the child vital nutrients. For women who have undergone a cesarean section, or C-section, in the past, labor induction during subsequent labors can cause the scar of the prior C-section to tear. This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition for both mother and child. The only response to this condition is an emergency C-section to avoid possibly fatal complications.

Complications

• Several other potential complications may result from inducing labor. Certain induction medications, such as oxytocin, may do their job too well by causing too many contractions, potentially lowering the baby's heart rate and oxygen supply. The umbilical cord may also prematurely slide into the vagina, causing similar problems. There is an increased risk of various infections for both mother and child with labor induction. Finally, even in pregnancies carried nearly to term, labor induction can cause premature birth. This puts the child at risk for respiratory problems, jaundice, and other difficulties.