Definition

Noun: 1. A medical procedure to artificially start the birthing process: "Induction of labor" refers to the deliberate initiation of uterine contractions before they begin spontaneously, with the aim of achieving a vaginal birth. This is typically performed when continuing the pregnancy poses a risk to the health of the mother or the baby.

Usage

• Medical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in obstetrics and clinical settings to describe a planned medical intervention.
  • The doctor recommended an induction of labor due to the mother's high blood pressure.
  • Scheduling an induction of labor can help manage hospital resources and staffing.

Advanced Usage

• "Elective induction of labor": An induction performed for non-medical reasons, such as convenience or maternal request, often after a certain gestational age.
  • The hospital's policy discourages elective induction of labor before 39 weeks of pregnancy.

Variants and Related Words

• Labor induction: A common alternative phrasing with the same meaning.
  • She was admitted to the hospital for labor induction.
• Induce labor (verb phrase): The action of performing this procedure.
  • They decided to induce labor to avoid further complications.

Synonyms

• Initiation of labor: A more general synonym.
• Stimulation of labor: Emphasizes the action of stimulating contractions.

Related Phrases

• Methods of induction: Refers to the specific techniques used, such as administering medication (e.g., oxytocin/Pitocin) or performing a membrane sweep.
  • The methods of induction were discussed with the patient.

Noun

1. (obstetrics) inducing the childbirth process artificially by administering oxytocin or by puncturing the amniotic sac