What a great, and complicated, question. Researchers have attempted to answer the many unanswered questions that exist about the circumstances in which induction of labor is more likely to do good than harm. Individual nurse-midwives and physicians also have varied opinions regarding elective induction of labor. There are many medical reasons (including preeclampsia and post-term pregnancies) that indicate induction. Induction of labor for patient or provider convenience is more complicated. The best advice I can offer is to ask your health care provider:

the reasons for induction of labor;

what are the benefits of induction; and

what are the risks with induction of labor.

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