Labor Induction: Care Instructions

Overview

If you pass your due date and your labor does not start on its own, your doctor may want to try to start (induce) labor. Your doctor may suggest doing this for other reasons. It may be a good idea to induce labor if you have another problem. For example, it may be done if you have high blood pressure. Or it may be a good idea if the placenta can no longer give enough support to the baby.

There are several ways to induce labor, such as using medicine or breaking the amniotic sac.

After you have your baby, you should not have any side effects from the medicine used to start labor.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

When should your labor be induced?

Labor induction may be done if labor doesn't start on its own.

Labor may be induced when:

• Your pregnancy has gone 1 to 2 weeks past your expected due date.

• You have a problem that may harm your health or the health of your baby if you continue to be pregnant. This includes high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and diabetes.

• Your water breaks, but labor does not start.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have questions about inducing labor.

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.