A Change in Thinking about Induction?

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

It appears that some doctors and hospitals are having a change of heart regarding inductions. Over the past decade, the rate of inductions has been steadily increasing. The number of inductions doubled between the years of 1990 and 2004, the last year of available statistics. In many hospitals, the number is on the decline now.

Inductions have become so popular that doctors were doing them upon request. In some cases, the woman requested the induction for a particular birthday, such as January 1, 2000 or July 7, 2007. In other cases, the woman may just be anxious to have the baby and be done with pregnancy.

These are not valid reasons for an induction and many women are now being told by their doctors that this practice is not advised. Hospitals in Utah and Idaho that are operated by Intermountain Healthcare are no longer allowing induction for convenience alone. In this system, doctors need to get approval for inductions prior to 37 weeks.

There is good reason for this change of heart. Induction isn't always a good thing, particularly when it is done for convenience. When a woman is induced, her risk of having a c section increases dramatically. These c sections are often done due to failure to progress in labor. In many cases, the baby simply isn't ready to be born.

There are times when an induction is needed. Doctors are still inducing when there is a medical reason, such as a complication or danger to the mother and baby. Most are still inducing when the pregnancy goes beyond forty two weeks. If your doctor suggests an induction, ask the reasons for the recommendation.

Intermountain Healthcare and other hospitals around the country are taking another look at induction and beginning to make common sense decisions. We can only hope that other hospitals around the country follow suit.

Related Articles:

Things to Do When You Are Overdue

Fearing for Your Baby

When Your Due Date Passes

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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