Induction of Labor: Weighing the Pros & Cons - A Comprehensive Guide

Question
I am 29 years old. I am pregnant with my first child, and I was due on 9/06/05. My doctor is suggesting that I be induced next week on the 14th, if nothing happens before so. My question is; what would be the pros and cons on inducing? My baby so far is healthy and of normal weight, under 7lbs. I, myself have gained about 25lbs. and we've had no complications during the pregnancy so far.

Answer
It is normal for a woman to go into labor by 40 weeks gestation. It is common to sometimes go into labor later than your due date. However, if you are allowed to go past 42 weeks gestation, the placenta may shut down and the baby is in danger. That is why we usually will perform a non stress test and biophysical profile at 41 weeks and twice a week until 42 weeks. If you have not delivered by 42 weeks, you should be induced. This is the standard of care and is recommended by ACOG. If you were due on September 6, your doctor can give you two weeks to go into labor. Usually, we wait one more week and then insert a cervidil suppository into the vagina that, hopefully, will "ripen" the cervix and cause you to start labor. If this induction does not cause you to go into labor, pitocin is started to give you contractions. If the pitocin does not cause you to go into labor, then a cesarean section must be done. YOu do not want to go past 42 weeks gestational age.