Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 33 (22): 318–20. PMID 6427575. == External links ==
Labor induction is the process or treatment that stimulates childbirth and delivery. Inducing (starting) labor can be accomplished with pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical methods. In Western countries, it is estimated that one-quarter of pregnant women have their labor medically induced with drug treatment. Inductions are most often performed either with prostaglandin drug treatment alone, or with a combination of prostaglandin and intravenous oxytocin treatment. Medical uses
Commonly accepted medical reasons for induction include:

Postterm pregnancy, i.e. if the pregnancy has gone past the end of the 42nd week. Intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR). There are health risks to the woman in continuing the pregnancy (e.g. she has pre-eclampsia). Premature rupture of the membranes (PROM); this is when the membranes have ruptured, but labor does not start within a specific amount of time. Premature termination of the pregnancy (abortion). Fetal death in utero and previous history of stillbirth. Twin pregnancy continuing beyond 38 weeks. Previous health conditions that puts risk on the woman and/or her child such as diabetes, high blood pressure
High BMIInduction of labor in those who are either at or after term improves outcomes for newborns and decreases the number of C-sections performed. Methods of induction
Methods of inducing labor include both pharmacological medication and mechanical or physical approaches.Mechanical and physical approaches can include artificial rupture of membranes or membrane sweeping.