What is an Induction?

What is an Induction of Labor and Do I Need One?

An induction is when medicine is given to you to start labor instead of waiting for you to go into labor on your own. You may need an induction for medical reasons. Some healthy women also choose to have an induction of labor at 39 weeks of pregnancy. A large medical study, called the ARRIVE study, found being induced at 39 weeks is safe for first-time moms without medical conditions and may have some benefits. In the study, women who had an induction at 39 weeks were less likely to develop high blood pressure or preeclampsia and had a slightly lower chance of having a C-section. If you would like to learn more, we recommend discussing induction with your provider.​