For a helpful overview of induction and the evidence for and against it, this is a great read with helpful links. Some details from the paper: Induction success: -without a sound medical reason, elective induction before 39 weeks increases risks to a baby, including breathing problems, infection, and NICU admission -if the cervix has not already begun to dilate and soften without intervention, elective induction before 41 weeks increases the chance of having an unplanned c-section How an induction changes labor: -induction requires an IV line and continuous electronic fetal monitoring, and eating and drinking are not typically allowed during inductions Evidence-based reasons for induction: -moderate evidence does exist for inductions in pregnancies lasting over 41 weeks, prelabor rupture of the membranes between 37 and 42 weeks, and high blood pressure near the end of pregnancy Reasons for induction NOT backed up by evidence: -prelabor rupture of the membranes in women who are 34-37 weeks pregnant -twin pregnancy -gestational diabetes requiring insulin -intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) at 37+ weeks -too little amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) Situations where induction is ineffective, harmful, or both: -concern that the baby will get too big (suspected macrosomia) -intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) before 37 weeks Induction methods that are ineffective: -hypnosis -homeopathy -sexual intercourse -sweeping / stripping membranes -acupuncture Self-induction methods that may be effective: -breast stimulation -castor oil ingestion With a Bishop score of 6 or higher, induction process involves: -breaking the bag of water (which means the induction cannot be stopped) -IV Pitocin -both IV Pitocin and breaking the bag of water With a Bishop score under 6, "cervical ripening" agents will usually be administered before induction: -prostaglandin suppositories -misoprostol administration -mechanical methods, like a foley catheter Cervical ripening methods increase the chance of having a baby within 24 hours but do NOT reduce the chance of having a c-section if these measures are not used Cautions: -breast stimulation, prostaglandin, and misoprostol all increase the chance of producing very strong contractions that may reduce oxygen flow to the baby