As you approach your due date (or go past it!), you might wonder whether to wait for spontaneous labor or consider an induction.
Induction rates have skyrocketed in the U.S., but many are done for non-medical reasons. So how do you decide what’s best for you and your baby?
This guide will cover:
✔️ Medical vs. elective induction—what’s the difference?
✔️ The risks & benefits of induction
✔️ How to make an informed decision about waiting vs. inducing
What Is Labor Induction?
📌 Inducing labor means using medical or natural methods to start contractions before they begin on their own.
✔️ It can involve medications, breaking the water, or physical stimulation.
✔️ Some inductions are medically necessary, while others are elective (for convenience).
📌 Pro Tip: Many people assume induction is harmless, but it can increase the need for interventions like epidurals, assisted delivery, and C-sections.
💡 Related Post: What You Need to Know About Inductions
When Is Induction Medically Necessary?
📌 Medical inductions are recommended when staying pregnant could pose risks.
🚼 Common Medical Reasons for Induction:
✔️ Preeclampsia or high blood pressure
✔️ Low amniotic fluid levels (oligohydramnios)
✔️ Severe fetal growth restriction (IUGR)
✔️ Signs of placental dysfunction
✔️ Chronic health conditions (diabetes, kidney disease, etc.)
✔️ Suspected infection in the uterus (chorioamnionitis)
📌 Pro Tip: Being “past your due date” alone is NOT a medical reason for induction unless there are complications.
💡 Related Post: How to Advocate for Yourself in Pregnancy & Birth
When Is Induction NOT Necessary?
🚼 Elective inductions are often done for non-medical reasons, including:
✔️ Due date has passed, but mom & baby are healthy.
✔️ Doctor’s convenience or hospital scheduling.
✔️ Fear of a “big baby” (ultrasounds are often inaccurate!).
✔️ Wanting to deliver before a holiday or specific date.
📌 Pro Tip: The average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks & 5 days—not exactly 40 weeks! Many healthy pregnancies go to 41-42 weeks.
💡 Related Post: Understanding the Stages of Labor: What to Expect from Start to Finish
Risks & Benefits of Induction vs. Waiting
📌 Induction may be necessary in some cases, but it also has downsides.
✔️ Potential Benefits of Induction:
✅ Avoids medical complications in high-risk pregnancies.
✅ Can help control timing for those needing planned care.
❌ Potential Risks of Induction:
🚩 More painful contractions (higher epidural rates).
🚩 Higher risk of C-section (especially in first-time parents).
🚩 Increased chance of needing forceps, vacuum, or episiotomy.
🚩 Longer labor if the cervix isn’t ready.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re considering induction, ask your provider for your Bishop Score—it measures cervical readiness and can predict how likely induction is to succeed.
💡 Related Post: Pain Management Options for Labor: From Natural to Medical
How to Decide Whether to Wait or Induce
📌 1. Ask About Your Bishop Score
✔️ A score of 6 or lower? Induction is more likely to fail → Consider waiting.
✔️ A score of 8 or higher? Induction is more likely to succeed.
📌 2. Discuss Risks vs. Benefits With Your Provider
✔️ Ask: “What are the risks of waiting? What are the risks of induction?”
✔️ Get a second opinion if your provider pressures you without medical cause.
📌 3. Try Natural Labor-Stimulating Methods First
✔️ Walking, movement, & upright positions encourage labor.
✔️ Nipple stimulation releases oxytocin (can help contractions start).
✔️ Acupuncture, sex, or eating dates may help ripen the cervix.
📌 4. Trust Your Gut
✔️ If you feel rushed or pressured, take time to research and decide.
✔️ If baby is healthy & well, waiting for spontaneous labor is often the safest option.
💡 Related Post: What to Do If Your Water Breaks Before Labor Starts
Birthify’s Expert Support for Labor & Birth Planning
💛 Not sure whether to induce or wait? Need guidance on making the best decision for your birth? Birthify’s birth experts provide real-time coaching to help you make an informed, confident choice.
👉 Join Birthify today and get expert-led birth support! Sign up here