induction of labour

induction of labour

The artificial initiation of the processes of birth, usually at a late stage in the pregnancy, before this has occurred spontaneously. This is done in cases in which the continuation of the pregnancy would be dangerous either to the mother or baby by reason of such conditions as PRE-ECLAMPSIA, POSTMATURITY, ANTEPARTUM HAEMORRHAGE, DIABETES or HAEMOLYTIC DISEASE (rhesus incompatibility). Induction may also be done if the fetus has died or is severely abnormal.