Reasons for Inductions

Care providers might recommend an induction for several reasons. Let’s take a closer look at those reasons. Most inductions are recommended for one of two reasons: you have a high-risk pregnancy or because you are past your due date.

High-risk pregnancy

There a a few conditions that places your pregnancy in the higher-risk category. Those conditions can be being pregnant with more than one baby, having Type I diabetes, having gestational diabetes, having preeclampsia, and if the mother already has underlying conditions that put her health at risk. If you fall into any of these categories, your provider may recommend scheduling an induction between your 37th and 40th week of pregnancy.

Being past your estimated due date

If you are experiencing a low-risk pregnancy, most providers are happy to wait until around 41 weeks of pregnancy before they schedule an induction. Some providers will wait until 42 weeks of pregnancy. If you are still pregnant between weeks 40 and 42, you may need to have additional appointments with your provider so that they can more closely monitor the health of you and your baby.

If your care provider is recommending a medical induction for you, it is OK to have a conversation about potential risks and benefits as well as potential induction methods.