Labour is induced when the doctor feels that the baby should be born soon but that a caesarean section is not warranted, although it may be necessary at a later stage if good progress is not made or either the baby or the mother are in distress. Any factors which affect the baby can lead to induction: Rh disease, any placenta problems or suspicion that the baby is no longer getting adequate nourishment. If the membranes rupture and labour does not start within several hours the baby may be at risk of infection and induction may be necessary. If the mother has diabetes, preeclampsia, high blood pressure or any other kind of disease the doctor may need to intervene.

See also:

Induction after waters break

Induction and normal birth

Induction - Pain